Osteoporosis: An Introduction

 What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is essentially, a disease in which the bones become brittle and weak. It means having ‘porous bones’. According to studies and research, this is a disease that favors Asian and White racial groups more, hence, putting them at risk. Most people don’t realize that they have osteoporosis until they suffer from a fracture.

How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?

 While having strong bones is something that most of us take for granted, a disease as common as osteoporosis gives us a reality check. It is important to get regular bone density tests after the age of 30, since peak bone density is achieved around 25 years of age. Osteoporosis and women, especially, have a close relationship and therefore, women should take special care and go in for regular check ups.

 Osteoporosis Causes and Symptoms

 There are a few  causes of osteoporosis as listed below -

1. It mainly occurs when there is an imbalance between new bone formation and old bone reabsorption. Basically, there are two main minerals that are needed to form bones- calcium and phosphate. Calcium is also, needed for proper functioning of many other organs, including the heart and the brain. Therefore, if calcium intake is inadequate or if the body does not absorb enough calcium from the bones, the bones become brittle and weak. 
2. Lack of certain hormones, such as estrogen and androgen, is primarily responsible for osteoporosis. That accounts for the fact why women older than 60 years of age are often, diagnosed with osteoporosis.
3. Older people may also, be diagnosed with this disease because of the reduction in calcium intake, lesser amount of weight-bearing exercises and other age related bodily changes.
4. Some other causes of osteoporosis include thyroid disorders, bone cancer, certain genetic disorders, use of certain medications, as well as  problems such as low calcium in the diet.
5. Cigarette smoking, eating disorders, and excessive alcohol consumption are also, linked to osteoporosis.

 Osteoporosis symptoms may not show up for many years and are often ignored as dull aches and pains. As a matter of fact, early in the course of the disease, osteoporosis may cause no symptoms. Later, it may cause dull pain in the bones or muscles, especially, in the lower back and neck.

Sharp pains may come on suddenly as the disease progresses and the pain may not radiate.  However, it may be made worse by activity that puts weight on the area, may be accompanied by soreness, and generally begins to subside in one week. At times, pain may linger more than three months.

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 Treatment and Diet for Osteoporosis

 If you suspect that you have signs or symptoms of osteoporosis or have risk factors for osteoporosis, see your doctor for further evaluation and treatment. Treatment would involve calcium supplements, a calcium-rich diet and also, regular exercise. It would involve  reducing or stopping mineral loss, increasing bone density, preventing bone fractures, and controlling the pain.  Depending upon the severity of the disease, your doctor may also, prescribe some specific osteoporosis drug or medication.  As far as dietary and lifestyle changes are concerned to prevent osteoporosis, young adults should get enough calcium (1,000 mg daily) in their diet perform weight-bearing exercise such as walking or aerobics and maintain normal body weight.

 Further Details

 You can find more details and helpful information at the following resources -

1. National Osteoporosis Society

2. Osteoporosis Canada