Osteoporosis
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a progressive condition in which bone density is lost, thereby weakening
the bones and making them more susceptible to fractures.
Who is affected by osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is very prevalent in the US. It affects over 10 million individuals
and women are four times as likely to develop osteoporosis than men. Estrogen deficiency
is one significant cause of accelerated bone loss in women during and after menopause.
Other risk factors for osteoporosis:
Although the exact medical cause for osteoporosis is unknown, a number of factors
contribute to osteoporosis: 
- aging
Bones become less dense and weaker as you age.
- race
Caucasian and Asian women are most at risk, although all races may develop the disease.
- body weight
Obesity is associated with a higher bone mass, therefore people who weigh less and have
less muscle are more at risk for developing osteoporosis.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Persons with osteoporosis may not develop any symptoms, or may have pain in their
bones and muscles, particularly in their back. The
symptoms of osteoporosis may resemble other
bone disorders or medical problems. Consult your physician for a diagnosis.
How osteoporosis is diagnosed:
The effects of this disease can best be managed with early diagnosis and treatment. In addition to a complete medical history and physical
examination, diagnostic procedures for osteoporosis may include:
- a complete medical history, including family history
- physical examination
- skeletal x-rays
- bone density test
- blood tests (i.e., to measure serum calcium and potassium levels)
Treatment for osteoporosis:
Specific treatment will be determined by the physician(s) based on:
- patient’s age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the disease
- expectations for the course of the disease
- patient’s tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- patient’s (or family’s) opinion or preference
The goals of managing osteoporosis are to decrease pain, prevent fractures, and to
minimize further bone loss.
Some of the methods used to treat osteoporosis, are also the methods to help prevent it
from ever developing, including:
- Maintain an appropriate body weight.
- Increase walking and other weight-bearing exercises.
- Minimize caffeine and alcohol consumption.
- Maintain an adequate intake of calcium through diet and supplements. Vitamin D is also
necessary because it facilitates the absorption of calcium.
- Prevent falls in the elderly to prevent fractures (i.e., install hand railings, or
assistive devices in the bathroom, shower, etc.).
- Consult your physician regarding a medication regimen.
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