Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and britile, making them more likely to break. This condition develops when bone density decreases and the protein and mineral content of bone tissue deteriorates.
There are a few key things to understand about osteoporosis:
- Bone density refers to the concentration of calcium phosphate, the mineral that makes bones hard and strong. Low bone density leads to osteoporosis.
- Bones naturally lose density as people age, but when it happens too quickly and severely, osteoporosis can develop. Women have a higher risk as bone loss increases dramatically at menopause due to declining estrogen levels.
- Fractures are the major consequence. The most common osteoporotic fractures occur in the hip, wrist, and spine. These can cause long-term disability.
- Osteoporosis doesn't always cause symptoms. Many people don't know they have it until their bones become so fragile that sudden stress or minor injury leads to a broken bone.
Some main risk factors include:
- Being older, especially women past menopause
- Having a small, thin body frame
- Family history of osteoporosis
- Abnormal absence of menstrual periods
- Postmenopausal estrogen deficiency
- Low testosterone levels in men
- Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
So how do you prevent and treat osteoporosis? Here are some key recommendations:
- Get enough calcium and vitamin D from foods and supplements to build strong bones
- Perform regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises
- Don't smoke and avoid excessive alcohol intake
- Have bone density tests periodically to check bone health
- Take bone-strengthening medication if osteoporosis develops
I hope this gives you a helpful overview explaining what osteoporosis is! Taking proactive steps for bone health is important, especially as we age, to try to prevent painful fractures due to fragile bones. Consult your doctor to get properly screened and catch low bone density early before it progresses to osteoporosis. For more information, visit Renew Wellness.