Bone density loss is a normal part of aging, butosteoporosisis not.
Bone tissue is renewed through a cycle in which bone cells break down and are replaced.
This process becomes less efficient with age, particularly for people who have been through menopause.
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When the bone tissue breaks down faster than it can regenerate, bone density loss occurs.
The risk of receiving a diagnosis of osteoporosis doubles every five years between the ages of 40 and 60.
This article will discuss thesymptoms and effects of osteoporosisand how they change over time.
With osteoporosis, this bone tissue loss happens more rapidly than it normally does with aging alone.
When bones have low density, they are thinner and weakened, increasing the risk of fractures.
Bone density is measured using abone density scan.
About 2 million osteoporotic fractures occur in the United States each year.
Up to 36% of older adults who experience a hip fracture die within a year.
Why Is Osteoporosis Called the Silent Thief?
Often thefirst sign of osteoporosisis a broken bone after significant bone loss has occurred.
Long-Term Osteoporosis Complications
Osteoporosis can have seriouslong-term effects, primarily due to fractures.
People over age 50 should have their height measured annually by their healthcare provider.
A loss of 0.75 inches or more is a cause to explore the possibility of a fracture.
Stooped Posture
Collapsed/fractured vertebrae can cause a stooped, or hunched, posture.
This can lead tokyphosis, a curvature of the spine which produces a hump-like appearance.
These changes in posture can cause problems in other areas of the body, such as shortness of breath.
Back and Neck Pain
The spine is made up of 33 bony segments.
Diagnosing and Treating Osteoporosis
The earlier treatment for osteoporosis starts, the more effective it is.
Getting a proper diagnosis and establishing a treatment plan are key.
This tool gives an estimated 10-year absolute hip/fragility fracture score.
Treatment
The best “treatment” for osteoporosis isprevention.
Treatment and prevention of osteoporosisinvolve a combination of lifestyle choices and medical treatment.
Nutrition
Getting enough calcium and vitamin D is crucial for bone health.
Getting enough of these important nutrients throughdiet alonecan be difficult, so your healthcare provider may recommend taking supplements.
Exercise
Physical activity is important for strengthening muscles, improving bone strength, and maintaining overall health.
Anexercise programthat includes both weight-bearing and balance exercises is ideal.
Always check with your healthcare provider before starting a new activity or exercise regime.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake
Smoking and excess alcohol are both linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis.
These include:
An occupational therapist can help you recognize and address the fall hazards in your home.
Osteoporosis treatment involves lifestyle practices such as getting enough calcium, vitamin D, and exercise.
Medication may also be prescribed if needed.
It’s never too early to take steps tostrengthen your bones.
Fractures related to osteoporosis can cause mobility issues, particularly for older people who experience hip fractures.
Fractures can also affect mental health, increasing the risk of depression.
Government of Canada.Osteoporosis and related fractures in Canada: report from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System 2020.
Government of British Columbia.Osteoporosis: diagnosis, treatment and fracture prevention.
Varacallo MA, Fox EJ.Osteoporosis and its complications.Medical Clinics of North America.
2018;13(1):12. doi:10.1007/s11657-018-0429-5
Mount Sinai.Osteoporosis.
Preda SA, Comanescu MC, Albulescu DM, et al.Correlations between periodontal indices and osteoporosis.Exp Ther Med.
2018;9(2):31. doi:10.3390/jfb9020031
Osteoporosis Canada.Risk factors.
Osteoporosis Canada.Signs and symptoms.
National Council on Aging.What is osteoporosis and how does It impact older adults?
