What is Osteoporosis and its symptoms?

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a bone condition that makes the bones weak and brittle, that even bending over or coughing can lead to a fracture. 

A healthy bone has these honeycombs-like spaces in them and that causes them to get bigger that resulting in thinning of the bones, loss of bone density and strength.

It can affect anyone, however, it is common in older adults, especially women who are past menopause. Medication and a healthy diet can help strengthen bones which can help you cope with the condition. 

What are the symptoms of Osteoporosis? 

Some people with it don’t even know they have this condition until they have a broken bone. They think the fall caused the fracture but in reality, it’s the brittle, broken, bone that caused the fall. 

There are no symptoms in the early stages, however, they are some signs that might show up indicating Osteoporosis.

• Back pain that gets worse when standing and moving 
• Loss of height 
• A bone that breaks way too easily 
• Loss of gripping strength 
• A curved spine 
• Difficulty bending your body 
• Weak and brittle nails 

If you have a family history of Osteoporosis, you should see an orthopedic doctor who can help you evaluate your risk.  

What causes Osteoporosis? 

The bones are always reviving themselves –– new bones are made and old ones are broken but after a certain age, this process of renewal slows down. When you are young your body forms new bones faster than it breaks the old bones, which leads to increased bone mass. 

After your early 20’s this process slows. By the age of 30, most people reach their peak bone mass. As people get older the bone mass is lost faster than it is made.

The chances of you developing Osteoporosis somewhat depend on how much body mass you have attained in your youth. However, there are certain factors that can lead to Osteoporosis which includes: 

Sex:  women are more likely to develop Osteoporosis than men as they age. 

Age: As you get older the chances of Osteoporosis increases. 

Family history: Having a family history of Osteoporosis can put you at higher risk. 

There are certain medical conditions where the risk of Osteoporosis is higher including Inflammatory bowel disease, Cancer, Lupus, Rheumatoid arthritis, kidney or liver disease. Imbalanced sex hormones, thyroid problems are common in people with Osteoporosis. And if you have low calcium intake, eating disorders, and Gastrointestinal surgery, the possibility of Osteoporosis is higher. 

Healthy eating and regular exercise can help prevent the disease. Along with maintaining a good weight, make sure you get a sufficient amount of vitamins, calcium, and proteins in your diet. 

Here at Bansal Global Hospital, we have specialized Orthopaedic doctors to help and provide you with the best treatment for your medical concerns. Consult our team of health care experts at the Bansal Global Hospital. Fix your appointment today and contact us at +919911062832