Osteoporosis - Vitality Clinic

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them more likely to fracture. It develops when bone loss occurs faster than new bone can form to replace it.

Osteoporosis affects both men and women, but women are at higher risk due to the rapid bone loss that occurs after menopause. Other risk factors include:

• Getting older
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Low calcium intake
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Small, thin body frame
• Certain medications like steroids

Some key facts about osteoporosis:

• It often has no symptoms until a fracture occurs
• Fractures often happen in the hip, wrist, and spine
• Women lose up to 20% of their bone density in the first 5-7 years after menopause
• About 30% of postmenopausal women have osteoporosis in the U.S.

To prevent and treat osteoporosis, focus on building strong bones, especially before age 35. Strategies include:

• Eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Getting adequate protein, fruits, and vegetables
• Doing weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises
• Not smoking and limiting alcohol intake
• Getting enough vitamin D from sunlight or supplements

Treatment may also involve medication like bisphosphonates to slow bone loss, along with pain medication and rehabilitation after fractures.

The outlook for osteoporosis varies depending on several factors. However, early detection and proper treatment can help reduce fracture risk and maintain better bone health.

So, in summary, osteoporosis makes bones porous and fragile over time, greatly raising the odds of breaks and fractures. Women are especially vulnerable after menopause. Check with your doctor at Vitality Clinic to see if you're at risk, and focus on diet and lifestyle steps like getting enough key nutrients, doing bone-strengthening exercise, not smoking, and limiting alcohol.