What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that causes bones to become thin and brittle, making them more likely to break. Over 8 million Americans have osteoporosis and 1.5 million sustain life-threatening fractures every year. Osteoporosis is known as a silent disease because it often occurs without symptoms.
Once your bones have been weakened by osteoporosis you may experience back pain and loss of height over time with an accompanying stooped posture.
What are the risk factors for osteoporosis?
There are several risk factors for osteoporosis. Risk factors include:
- Age
- Female gender
- Small, thin-boned people
- Caucasian and Asian decent
- Heredity
- Hormones
- A diet low in calcium and vitamin D
- Some types of medications
- Leading an inactive lifestyle
- Smoking
- Alcoholism
How is osteoporosis detected?
Postmenopausal women should be screened for osteoporosis. DEXA is a specialized x-ray of the hip and lower spine that calculates the density of the bone. This is used to help determine the severity of bone loss. Your doctor will use this test to determine the best course of treatment.
Can osteoporosis be prevented?
Osteoporosis is largely preventable for most people. To prevent osteoporosis, you should get your recommended amounts of Calcium and Vitamin D, engage in regular weight-bearing exercise, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.
If you already have osteoporosis, getting adequate calcium and vitamin D can help prevent your bones from becoming weaker.
Talk with your doctor if you are at risk of developing osteoporosis.
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