Osteoporosis: The Silent Threat to the Elderly

 

 

     Osteoporosis is a condition where bone density and mass decrease, leading to weakened, brittle bones that are more likely to fracture. In some cases, osteoporosis can cause a reduction in height due to bone mass deterioration. The result of osteoporosis is an increased risk of bone fractures, as the bones become less able to bear weight, shock, or pressure.

 

 

 

 

Causes of Osteoporosis

     Bones are made up of bone-building cells (osteoblasts) that create new bone using calcium and protein, as part of the body’s growth process and to replace worn-out bone. Within the bones, there are also bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts) that break down old bone. Osteoporosis occurs when there is an imbalance in the activity of these two types of cells, leading to more bone breakdown than bone creation.

 

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Patients often realize they have osteoporosis after they start experiencing symptoms. There are also other warning signs to watch for, which can help ensure timely treatment:

 

• Easily fractured bones, particularly in the wrist, arms, hips, or spine, even from minor impacts
• A hunched back or upper spine curvature
• A decrease in height
• Chronic back pain

 

 

 

 

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

Several factors can increase the risk of developing osteoporosis, including:

 

• A family history of osteoporosis
• Being of Caucasian or Asian descent
• A deficiency in vitamin D or calcium
• Regular consumption of alcohol or caffeine-containing beverages
• Smoking
• Rapid weight loss due to excessive exercise or dieting
• Overuse of steroid medications
• Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders
• Chronic diseases, such as liver disease or digestive disorders

 

Read more: Are You At Risk of Osteoporosis? Learn Through A Bone Mineral Desity Test

 

 

 

 

Osteoporosis Treatment

There are various medications to treat osteoporosis, especially for postmenopausal women. Medications used include:

 

1.  Estrogen 

     Estrogen Often given to women who have had their ovaries removed or to alleviate menopause symptoms.

 

2.  SERM (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators) 

     Synthetic drugs similar to estrogen, developed to reduce the incidence of breast cancer, which also help reduce bone loss and the risk of bone fractures.

 

3.  Calcitonin

     A natural hormone extracted from salmon that helps prevent bone loss and reduce the incidence of spinal fractures. It also has pain-relieving properties.

 

4.  Bisphosphonates

     Medications that inhibit bone breakdown, helping reduce the risk of spinal and hip fractures.

 

5.  Parathyroid Hormone 

     For patients with severe osteoporosis or those who do not respond to other treatments.

 

6.  Surgical Treatment 

     Surgery may be needed to address complications from bone fractures, such as injecting cement into the spine for spinal fractures or hip replacement surgery for hip fractures. To determine if bones are deteriorating, it’s important to consult a doctor for a medical history review, X-rays, and a bone density test. If any abnormalities are found, seek medical advice for proper care.

 

 

 

 

The Prevention From Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis risk can be reduced by taking care of your health and nourishing your bones, including:

 

• Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Avoiding smoking
• Limiting alcohol, sodas, tea, coffee, or caffeinated beverages with high acidity
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Being cautious with medications, especially long-term steroid use

 

Read more: Check Quickly!!!... Menopause Before 'Osteoporosis'