Osteoporosis is a silent disease characterised by low bone density and structural deterioration of the bones, resulting in an increased risk of fractures. It affects millions of people worldwide, especially women over 50 years of age.
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak, brittle and more prone to fractures. It occurs when the body for whatever reason has a loss of bone tissue, produces less bone tissue or both. Deterioration in bone density results in a higher risk of fractures, particularly in areas of the body such as the hip, spine and wrist. Approximately 200 million people are estimated to have osteoporosis worldwide. Although it occurs in both men and women, women are four times more likely to develop the disease than men. Osteoporosis is responsible for more than two million fractures every year and this number is growing.
The causes of osteoporosis
Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis. The most important of them are:
•Age: As age increases the body's ability to regenerate bone decreases, leading to a gradual loss of bone density.
Hormonal changes: Decreased estrogen levels in women during menopause and low testosterone levels in men can accelerate bone loss.
•Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and long-term use of certain medications (such as corticosteroids) can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Eating disorders. Severe restriction of food intake and low weight weaken bones in both men and women.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease and hormonal imbalances can contribute to the development of osteoporosis.
• Hyperactivity of the thyroid, parathyroid or adrenal glands.
•History of bariatric surgery (weight loss) or organ transplantation.
The symptoms that accompany osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is known as the "silent disease" because it usually progresses without obvious symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, the most common symptoms that deserve attention include:
•Back pain, caused by broken vertebrae.
•Loss of height over time, resulting from compression fractures in the spine.
• Crooked posture or kyphosis
•Bone fractures that occur more easily than expected, even from minor injuries.
•Shortness of breath (in advanced cases with severe kyphosis).
The diagnosis
Early detection of osteoporosis is vital to prevent fractures.
The disease can be diagnosed by taking a medical history and performing a clinical examination in whichsymptoms and the areas in which they are located are evaluated. Laboratory blood tests may also be requested to assess calcium and vitamin D levels and Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), which is a non-invasive scan that measures bone density in the hip and spine, helping to determine bone strength and diagnose osteoporosis.
The ways of coping
While osteoporosis cannot be completely cured, several treatments can slow the progression of the disease. These treatments include:
Lifestyle changes: regular weight-bearing exercise, a balanced diet rich
in calcium and vitamin D, , limiting alcohol use and smoking can contribute to overall bone health.
•Medication: Several medications can slow bone loss, boost bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. These include bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, and others. The choice of medication depends on factors such as age, gender, general health, and fracture risk.
•Care to prevent falls: implementing measures to reduce the risk of falls, such as modifying the home environment, using assistive devices, and training to maintain balance and strength through physical therapy, can help prevent fractures.
In conclusion, osteoporosis is characterised by weak and brittle bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures. It mainly affects older people, especially women. By knowing the risk factors for developing osteoporosis and the symptoms that accompany it, you can visit specialists in time and receive the appropriate treatment approach.
