Interesting Facts About Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease in adults, especially in women. In osteoporosis, there is a decrease in the density of bones and a loss of calcium. It causes weakness of bones. Bones become so brittle. Mild stress such as coughing or bending over can cause fracture. These fractures mostly occur in the hip, wrist or spine. As we know bone is a living tissue that is broken down and replaced.

Osteoporosis is a common medical condition characterized by the weakening of the bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures.

Osteoporosis affects both men and women. But the women going through menopause are at a higher risk of facing osteoporosis. You can consult a best orthopedic doctor in Lahore if you are facing bone diseases. However, there are no specific symptoms in the early stages of bone loss. But once your bones become weak by osteoporosis, you might feel symptoms like back pain, loss of height and stooped posture etc.

Who is At Risk for Osteoporosis?

Some people develop osteoporosis earlier. The factors that increase the risk of developing osteoporosis are age, family history of broken bones, being thin, eating a diet low in calcium and vitamins, and the use of certain medicines.

Osteoporosis Prevention

Taking care of your bones during childhood and adolescence is very important. It can help in the prevention of osteoporosis in later ages. There are some steps which can be taken to improve your bone health. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the following five steps can help you in preventing osteoporosis. They are:

• Take appropriate amounts of calcium and vitamin D
• Engage in different exercises especially weight bearing and muscle strengthening.
• Quit smoking and any kind of harmful drinks.
• Have a bone density test.
• Take medication when appropriate.

Half of Women Break Bones due to Osteoporosis

Women have higher chances of developing osteoporosis as compared to other diseases like heart attack, stroke and breast cancer. It is said that almost 50% of women suffer from a bone break at some point in their lives due to this illness.

Osteoporosis in Men

Almost 20% of men are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Men above 50 are more likely to break bones due to osteoporosis. It is estimated that almost 25% of men face osteoporosis-related bone fractures in their lives as compared to women.

Men are more likely to die from Osteoporosis than Women

Almost one-third of all hip fractures in men, 37% die in the first year of fracture. Men have a higher mortality rate however researchers aren’t sure why men have a higher rate. Studies suggest that men have additional medical problems at the time of fracture.

Most people are not tested for Osteoporosis

80% of the people are not tested for the disease. However, breaking of bone is a common first sign of osteoporosis but lack of awareness by physicians and patients is another factor.

If You Have Osteoporosis, a Sneeze Can Break Your Bones

Your bones are extremely weakened by osteoporosis, they are very easily broken.

If you fall, trip on carpet, bump into your table these things can also cause fracture.

People suffering from advanced osteoporosis can break their bones even by sneezing.

Risk of Osteoporosis can be reduced in Children

Most of the bones are made during childhood. By age 20, we all have 90% of our bones. By 30, we are at peak bone mass. After 40, we start losing our bones a little bit each year. If peak bone mass is increased by 10% in kids they will have a 50% less chance of developing osteoporosis in adulthood. This can be done if children are given nutritious meals and a physically active family lifestyle.

Losing Height is a Potential Sign

If you are losing half or one-and-a-half inches altogether, you must go for your bone check-up. Some other signs include stoop posture and back pain.

Your Wrinkle Cream Could Hurt You

Retinol is present in almost all the creams which are being prescribed for treating skin conditions like acne, age spots etc. Vitamin A is present in retinol and too much vitamin A can put you at a risk of bone loss and fracture. If you are taking vitamin A supplements, then this would end up with so much vitamin A in your diet and will ultimately prevent vitamin D from reaching your bones. Talk to your doctor to maintain a balance of vitamins in your medications, supplements and fortified foods.

Increase Your Intake of Calcium

Calcium is very important in maintaining your bone health. It plays an important part in preventing osteoporosis. Calcium-fortified drinks are also available.

Prevalence:

Osteoporosis is a widespread condition, particularly among older adults. It affects both men and women, although it is more common in women, especially after menopause.

Bone Density:

Osteoporosis is defined by low bone density, which is measured using a test called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA). Low bone density increases the risk of fractures.

Risk Factors:

Several factors increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, including age, gender, family history, hormonal changes (especially in menopause), low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medications.

Fracture Risk:

The most common fractures associated with osteoporosis occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. Hip fractures are particularly serious, often leading to significant disability and mortality, especially in older adults.

Asymptomatic:

Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because it typically progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs. This makes early detection and prevention important.

Bone Remodeling:

Bone is a living tissue that undergoes a continuous process of remodeling, where old bone is replaced by new bone. In osteoporosis, the balance between bone formation and resorption is disrupted, resulting in a net loss of bone.

Prevention:

Lifestyle factors such as a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake can help prevent osteoporosis.

Medications:

There are medications available to treat osteoporosis, including bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and newer medications like denosumab and teriparatide. These medications can help increase bone density and reduce fracture risk.

Diagnosis:

Osteoporosis is diagnosed through bone density testing, typically a DXA scan. It measures bone mineral density (BMD) and compares it to the BMD of a healthy young adult to determine if there is bone loss.

Lifestyle Management:

Besides medication, lifestyle changes such as fall prevention strategies, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption are important for managing osteoporosis.

Nutrition:

Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake are essential for bone health. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, fortified foods, and supplements can help ensure you get enough of these nutrients.

Exercise:

Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, dancing, and resistance training, can help improve bone density and strength. Balance and flexibility exercises are also important to reduce the risk of falls.

Patient Education:

Education and awareness about osteoporosis are crucial. People at risk should discuss prevention and management strategies with their healthcare providers.

The Takeaway:

The risk of osteoporosis can be decreased if we start taking care of our diet from childhood. If you start to face bone issues at any age consult your orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Follow the diet plans suggested by your doctor because early treatment can also save you from various diseases.

It’s important for individuals at risk of osteoporosis or those diagnosed with the condition to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized plan for prevention and treatment. Early detection and intervention can help reduce the risk of fractures and improve overall bone health.