Osteoporosis is a very common condition that occurs over time as the bones become thinner and lose their density. It is classed as the most common form of bone disease, and it is estimated that as many as 20% of women over the age of 50 have the condition. It can occur when the body does not produce enough new bone, too much old bone is reabsorbed, or both.
Bone loss typically occurs gradually as one ages. Calcium and phosphate, the two main minerals that are essential for bone formation, may be reabsorbed back into the body, making bone tissue weaker and more prone to breaking. The main causes of osteoporosis are changes in hormone levels in women and men. In menopausal women, estrogen levels drop, and aging men experience a decrease in testosterone levels. Other causes for the condition may include being confined to a bed for extended periods of time, chronic rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, corticosteroid medications, antiseizure drugs, vitamin D deficiency, or hyperparathyroidism. Additional risk factors in women include drinking, absent menstrual periods, family history, low body weight, and smoking. Osteoporosis is most common in women.
Detecting Osteoporosis
In many cases, osteoporosis is not detected until a break or fracture occurs. In the early symptoms of the disease, there are typically no noticeable symptoms. Later on, symptoms such as bone pain, loss of height, lower back pain, neck pain, or stooped posture may occur. Doctors typically diagnosis osteoporosis through bone mineral testing or a special type of spine CT. In some cases, X-rays may also reveal osteoporosis.
Treating osteoporosis
Treatment for osteoporosis is intended to control pain while stopping bone loss and preventing fractures. In many cases, patients are given prescription medications that work to slow down or stop bone loss while strengthening the bones to prevent fractures. Pain medications may also be prescribed. Vitamin D and calcium supplements are often recommended. Doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes including changes in diet and exercise habits.
When treated, patients can reduce their risk of experiencing fractures and other complications as a result of osteoporosis. Treatments cannot, however, repair bones that have already collapsed or been fractured. Complications associated with osteoporosis may include disability caused by weakened bones, fractures with or without injury, compression fractures of the spine, or loss of the ability to walk due to hip fractures. Although the disease can be debilitating, it does not have a direct impact on life expectancy.