What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes a loss of bone density, leading to brittle, weak bones that are prone to fracture. It's a common disease, especially among postmenopausal women, and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
What causes osteoporosis?
There are several factors that contribute to the development of osteoporosis:
- Aging - As we get older, bone density naturally decreases as old bone is removed faster than new bone is created. This process accelerates rapidly in women after menopause due to lower estrogen levels.
- Hormone levels - In addition to low estrogen after menopause, low testosterone levels in men and high cortisol levels can lead to bone loss.
- Calcium and vitamin D deficiency - We need adequate intake of these essential nutrients so our bodies can properly build new bone tissue.
- Genetics - People with a family history of osteoporosis are at greater risk.
- Inactive lifestyle - Weight-bearing exercise helps build and maintain strong bones. A sedentary lifestyle can accelerate bone loss.
- Smoking and excessive alcohol intake - These unhealthy habits weaken bones.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms. Many people don't know they have the disease until they break a bone, often after a minor fall or bump. Common osteoporotic fracture sites include the hips, spine, and wrists. Some symptoms that may indicate advanced bone loss are:
- Loss of height over time - Stooped posture - Back pain due to fractured or collapsing vertebrae - A dowager's hump, an excessive curvature of the upper spine
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Doctors will review medical history, perform physical exams, and order bone mineral density (BMD) tests to check bone health. A DXA scan is the most common BMD test - it uses low doses of X-ray beams to measure bone density, usually at the hip and spine. Osteoporosis is diagnosed when BMD is significantly lower than average peak bone mass.
How is osteoporosis treated?
The main goals of osteoporosis treatment are to prevent fractures and maintain or build bone density. Treatment options include:
- Medications - Bisphosphonates, denosumab, raloxifene, hormone therapy, and other drugs help slow or stop bone loss and thinning.
- Nutrition - Adequate calcium, protein, and vitamin D intake supports bone health.
- Exercise - Weight-bearing activities like walking, jogging, tennis, and strength training help build strong bones.
- Lifestyle changes - Quit smoking, limit alcohol, manage stress, and avoid falls to protect your bones.
- Balance Hormone Clinic provides comprehensive osteoporosis treatment with bioidentical hormone therapy, nutrition plans, supplements, and lifestyle coaching. Our individualized programs help patients improve bone density and live full, active lives. Schedule a consultation today to discover your treatment options!
The takeaway? Osteoporosis causes bones to weaken and fracture easily. With early diagnosis, medication, proper nutrition, exercise, and expert care from clinics like Balance Hormone Clinic, the damaging effects of this disease can be slowed or reversed. Don't ignore the warning signs - take action to build strong, healthy bones!