Osteoporosis

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that leads to the development of thin, weak bones. Certain lifestyle factors put you at risk for developing low bone density, which is the first stage of osteoporosis. About 54 million Americans have osteoporosis or low bone mass. Women aged 50 and over have the highest risk of developing weak bones.

Most men and women obtain peak bone mass in their early 20s. Over time, bone mass tends to decrease.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis?

It can be difficult to know if you have osteoporosis unless you experience complications related to this debilitating disease. Examples include:

• Broken bones, especially bones in the spine, hip, and wrist
• Pain that doesn’t go away
• Loss of height
• Stooped, hunched posture
• Limited mobility

You may have osteoporosis and not experience symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease.

What are the Risk Factors for Getting Osteoporosis?

You can’t always avoid getting osteoporosis, but certain factors can increase your risk for developing it, such as:

• Older age
• Being a woman, caucasian, or of Asian decent
• Lack of physical activity
• Genetic factors, including family history of osteoporosis
• Having a small frame size or being underweight
• An eating disorder
• Hormone changes associated with menopause or thyroid problems
• A low intake of calcium, vitamin D, or protein
• Excess alcohol or tobacco use
• Certain medications and chronic health conditions

Chronic diseases that can put you at risk for developing osteoporosis include digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases, cancer, blood disorders, nervous system problems, and hormonal disorders.

How is Osteoporosis Prevented or Treated?

The experienced OB/GYN team at Capital Women’s Care uses a special machine to check the density of your bones. This process is painless, but it will let you know if you have low bone density or osteoporosis. If you have either, your OB/GYN specialist will recommend an appropriate treatment, which may include:

• Medications designed to improve bone density
• Estrogen therapy
• Diet or exercise modifications
• Counseling to quit smoking or drinking too much alcohol

To maximize bone mass in children and young adults, it’s important for them to take in plenty of calcium, protein, and vitamin D, as well as maintain a healthy weight and get plenty of weight-bearing physical activity.

If you’re you’re ready to get screened for osteoporosis, book an appointment with Capital Women’s Care online or over the phone today.

CALL US NOWRequest Appt