The word Osteoporosis is derived from Latin words meaning ‘porous bones’. Osteoporosis is a medical condition that causes the bone to lose density and strength. The condition can affect people of both gender and people of any age, but older adults and women are more commonly affected. Commonly affected bones are ribs, wrist bones, spinal vertebrae, and hip bones.
People with osteoporosis are often at a risk of fractures, while doing routine daily activities, including simple activities such as walking or standing. In this health article we emphasize 5 lesser known facts you need to be aware of osteoporosis.
Fact 1 - Getting enough vitamin D and calcium is not the only way to ensure that you are safe from osteoporosis.
It is a well known fact that vitamin D and calcium are very essential for maintaining bone health. But getting the required amounts of vitamin D and calcium is just the first precautionary step to protect your bones from osteoporosis. There are other unhealthy lifestyle habits too that make you more susceptible to osteoporosis, and they include excessive consumption of alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and inactivity and lack of physical activities. It is important to avoid these bone health deteriorating habits, be physically active and exercise regularly. Make sure your exercise regimen includes lifting weights and strengthening exercises.
Fact 2 - Low bone density is not always a sign of osteoporosis.
All conditions of low bone density are not osteoporosis. Lower than normal bone density, but not low enough to qualify as osteoporosis is called osteopenia. However, osteopenia puts you at greater risk of developing osteoporosis. Osteopenia can be managed by a more conservative treatment plan that does not include medication. It is important that people with osteopenia get their bones regularly screened for bone density and monitor their bone health.
3 - Prevention of osteoporosis should start early.
As already mentioned, osteoporosis can affect people of both genders and people of any age but is commonly seen in people older than 65. It is interesting to understand that the underlying causes of osteoporosis can be traced back to childhood. About 90 percent of bone mass develops before the age of 20. A compromised bone development during this stage, means a greater risk of developing osteoporosis later in life.
Fact 4 - Early diagnosis of osteoporosis is very important.
diagnosis is very important in the management of osteoporosis. Early diagnosis can help limit bone loss. But, osteoporosis may go unnoticed as many people with the condition do not experience symptoms in the early stages. Hence, experts recommend regular bone density scans in susceptible groups, which include women over the age of 65 and men over the age of 70, people with a family history of osteoporosis, and anyone who is considered at risk of developing osteoporosis based on clinical or genetic factors. It is always wise to ask your doctor about your possible risk of bone loss and if you require bone scans.
Fact 5 - There is no cure for osteoporosis as of yet, but it can be treated effectively.
Osteoporosis can be effectively managed by medications such as bisphosphonates. These medications safely and effectively slow bone loss, and prevent bone fractures. Moreover, osteoporosis preventive measures such as avoiding alcohol and smoke, weight-bearing exercises, and ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D levels can also prevent worsening of bone health after diagnosis.
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