Osteoporosis Facts

Osteoporosis is disease in which bone loss occurs leading to weak bones that are more prone to breaks. Bone loss occurs because the body breaks down old bone faster than it can replace it with new bone tissue. Osteoporosis can progress to serious fractures breaks if left untreated. The most common breaks related to osteoporosis occur in the spine, hips, ribs, and waist. The results of the fractures can be devastating to osteoporosis sufferers and loved ones.

There are several factors that contribute to the likely hood of osteoporosis development. These risk factors may genetic or modifiable in nature. White and Asian older women with thin bones are the group most at risk for osteoporosis development. A family history of osteoporosis also increases the risk factor for the condition. It is important to note that while women are 4 times more likely to develop osteoporosis, men may still develop the disease. Men account for 20% of osteoporosis sufferers. Other factors such as cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol intake, inactivity, poor diet, and low estrogen levels are also associated with increased risk for osteoporosis. Taking glucocorticoids may also increase osteoporosis risk. Glucocorticoids are found in a variety of medications including treatments for arthritis, asthma, lupus, and Crohn's disease.

Osteoporosis is most likely to occur in people older than 50. Maximum bone density is usually reached around the age of 25 years old. A slight bone loss in bone density begins to occur around the age of 30. Bone loss begins to occur very rapidly in women in the first years following menopause and continues to gradually throughout their lifetime.

Many people who suffer from osteoporosis do not know they have the disease until they fracture a bone. Pain is the first symptom of osteoporosis detected in some sufferers which follows the completion of normal daily activities. Over time, osteoporosis may even cause the bones in the spine to collapse. This is a very disturbing symptom and can cause very severe back pain or even cause hunchback. Osteoporosis pain ranges in severity and intensity from one person to another.

Bone density tests can be used to detect osteoporosis. Bone density test usually take less tan 15 minutes to complete and are non invasive. These tests are very valuable because they can detect osteoporosis before a fracture is made and can predict your chances of developing fractures in the future. More specialized tests are also available and can be ordered by your health care provider.

Osteoporosis may be prevented by reaching maximum bone density and strength during childhood and teenage years. This is followed by maintaining and building healthy bones. The goal of building healthy bones can be reached by getting the proper amount of exercise, getting the recommended amounts of vitamin D, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Avoiding other specific drugs including certain seizure, cancer, endometriosis, and antacids may reduce the risk for osteoporosis development. Your health care provider will be able to provide you with a detailed list of medications.

Osteoporosis may be treated with lifestyle changes and medications. Increased exercise and better nutrition are a valuable tool in osteoporosis treatment. You need to assess your diet and exercise regimen with your health care provider to determine the right levels for you. Your health care provider may even prescribe an oral medication which can slow or stop bone loss, increase bone density, and reduce fracture risk.