Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones and increases the chances for unexpected fractures. Even small actions such as coughing, over bending can also lead to a fracture. The fractures that result from osteoporosis occur mainly in the hip, wrist, and spine. People of any age and race can get affected with osteoporosis, but it is more common in older women.
It does not show any symptoms and it is unidentified until a bone fracture takes place. However, consulting a doctor at the right time and taking proper steps can help prevent osteoporosis.
What Causes Osteoporosis?
The exact reasons for osteoporosis are unknown. The body gets support from the bones and they also store minerals and calcium for future use. The bones broke down when the body requires calcium and new bones are made. Once you are older than 20, the process slows down and the peak body mass is obtained at 30 or so. After 35, the bone loss increases than the bone build up. Hence, it causes loss of bone mass.
If you have osteoporosis, the loss of body mass is faster than usual. In women, bone break down occurs faster after menopause.
Other causes of osteoporosis include medical conditions such as hypothyroidism and excessive use of medications.
There are risk factors that can increase the chances of developing osteoporosis:
- Women are at a greater risk of this condition than men
- As you become older, the bone density decreases and the risk for osteoporosis increases.
- Women and men with thin bones are also at a greater risk of developing osteoporosis
- Low levels of some hormones such as testosterone in men and estrogen in women.
What are the Common Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis?
In the early stages, it does not show any symptoms. But with time and once your bones become weakened, you might see certain signs and symptoms as follows:
- Lower back pain
- Frequent bone fractures than expected
- Loss of height
- Changes in body posture such as either bending or stooping forward
- Reduced grip while holding any objects
- Weak nails
If your family have a history of osteoporosis, and you don’t have any symptoms, still you should consider visiting a doctor to determine your risks and avoid serious complications.
Diagnosis for Osteoporosis
To diagnose you for osteoporosis, your doctor will ask your medical history, and also conduct a physical exam. If required, he may conduct blood test and urine test to check for any problems that is causing loss of bone density.
If your doctor suspects that you have osteoporosis, he will conduct a bone density test that measures the density of bones in the wrists, spine, and hips. These 3 areas are the major areas that can be affected by osteoporosis. This test is non-invasive and it takes less than 30 minutes.
Doctors recommend that every woman above the age of 65 should undergo this test and men above the age of 75 must get this test done.
Treatment for Osteoporosis
If your doctor determines that you have osteoporosis, he works with you to suggest a treatment plan. The treatment for this condition includes consuming mineral and vitamin supplements, medications, and proper exercise. Exercises such as weight-bearing, and balancing can help prevent osteoporosis.
Though there isn’t any cure for osteoporosis, the right treatment can strengthen and protect your bones. The treatment focuses on slowing down the breakdown of bones and to enhance the growth of new bones.
Looking for Osteoporosis Treatment? Consult Dr Suhas Today
If you are suffering from osteoporosis, Dr Suhas is your right choice. He has been treating patients suffering from different orthopedic problems including osteoporosis for 17 years. He has several satisfied patients and can you can count on him for his treatment. He is well-known for his assured services in Hyderabad, and do not delay to discuss your condition with him. To schedule your appointment, call us.