The Importance of Early Intervention of Osteoporosis Care

Because of the disease’s effect on the bones’ fragility, people who have it are more likely to experience abrupt and unexpected bone fractures. If you have osteoporosis, your bones are weaker and have less mass. The condition frequently progresses without any warning signs or discomfort, and it is typically not recognised until the weakening bones result in excruciating fractures. The majority of these involve hip, wrist, and spine fractures.

What causes Osteoporosis?

• Age: As people get older, they naturally lose bone density. Women are at particularly high risk after menopause.
• Gender: Women are at higher risk of osteoporosis than men due to hormonal changes and differences in bone structure.
• Family history: A family history of osteoporosis increases the risk of developing the condition.
• Hormonal factors: Low levels of oestrogen, testosterone, and other hormones can affect bone density.
• Lifestyle factors: A diet low in calcium and vitamin D, lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Chronic conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, and Crohn’s disease, can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Medications: Some medications, such as glucocorticoids and anticonvulsants, can cause bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

What are the symptoms of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis often has no symptoms in its early stages. As the condition progresses, some common symptoms may include:

• Fractures (broken bones) that occur more easily than expected, such as after a minor fall
• Back pain, caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
• Height loss, as a result of compression fractures in the spine
• A stooped posture or curvature of the spine
• Increased bone pain
• Joint and muscle aches
• Loss of muscle mass and strength

How Osteoporosis is diagnosed?

• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA): This is the most commonly used test to measure bone density and diagnose osteoporosis. It is a painless, non-invasive test that uses X-rays to measure the density of bones in the spine, hip, and wrist.
• Ultrasound: This test uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the density of bones in the heel or wrist.
• Quantitative computed tomography (QCT): This is a type of X-ray that provides detailed images of bones, including the spine and hip.
• Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (PQCT): This is a type of X-ray that measures bone density in the forearm, shin, or other peripheral bones.
• Bone turnover markers: This is a blood test that measures the levels of certain proteins and other markers that indicate the rate at which bone is being broken down and rebuilt.

Treatment Options for Osteoporosis

The goal of treatment for osteoporosis is to slow down or stop bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. Treatment options include:

• Medications: There are several medications that have been shown to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in people with osteoporosis. These include bisphosphonates, denosumab, teriparatide, and raloxifene.
• Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help maintain and improve bone health. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may be recommended for women who are experiencing menopause-related bone loss. This involves taking estrogen or other hormones to help slow down bone loss.
• Vitamin and mineral supplements: Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help prevent or treat osteoporosis, but it is best to speak with a doctor before starting any supplement regimen.
• Weight-bearing exercise: Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, hiking, dancing, and weightlifting, can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

“The Benefits of Vitamin D and Calcium for Strong Bones”

Vitamin D and calcium are essential nutrients for strong bones. Here are some of the key benefits of these nutrients for bone health:

• Calcium: Calcium is the main building block of bones and is necessary for maintaining strong, healthy bones. A diet that is adequate in calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones, especially during childhood and adolescence.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and is necessary for maintaining healthy bones. It also helps regulate the balance of calcium in the body, which is important for preventing bone loss.
• Combined benefits: Vitamin D and calcium work together to promote bone health. Adequate amounts of both nutrients are essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

It is important to get enough vitamin D and calcium through a balanced diet, exposure to sunlight, and if necessary, supplements. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Conclusion

At Altor Hospital, our team of highly trained medical professionals is committed to assisting patients in managing their osteoporosis through the creation of individualised treatment regimens that are supported by evidence. If you are concerned about osteoporosis or any other health condition, we encourage you to maintain the strength and health of your bones throughout your lifetime by preventing and treating conditions that are preventable and treatable with the appropriate combination of changes to one’s lifestyle, medication, and medical intervention.