Osteoporosis Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Osteoporosis is infamously known as the disease of bones. In osteoporosis loss of Bone Mineral Density (BMD) occurs which can increase fragility in bones.It is a typical human tendency to not to visit the doctor for a regular medical check up. But mind you, this invisible devil like Osteoporosis would not give you a chance, once it gets its grip. Our skeleton is the basic framework on which our body stands. If this frame collapses, we remain as handicaps for the rest of our life. So Osteoporosis is serious and need to be kept under strong vigil.

Osteoporosis is an ailment of the bones! If neglected in the initial stages, it can lead to a fracture. Clinically, Osteoporosis lowers the Bone Mineral Density (BMD). The bones become 'porous' at an advanced stage and finally lead to a crack that causes a fracture.

Osteoporosis affects post menopausal women more than men. The reason for common occurrence in post menopausal women is because of the cessation of Estrogen.

Bone formation is a dynamic process. When the rate of bone degeneration exceeds that of bone formation, the person is said to be at risk for Osteoporosis. This condition is further worsened if the body does not receive the desired amount of Calcium and Phosphate (the two essential elements for bone formation).Lack of hormones (Estrogen in women and Androgen in men) is another major cause of Osteoporosis.Few other conditions that promote Osteoporosis are: Deficiency of Vitamin DLack of weight-bearing exercisesThyroid problemsBone cancerWomen with a genetic history of Osteoporosis.Post menopausal women and also women having done surgically induced menopause.Inadequate intake of Calcium, Phosphate etcRheumatoid arthritis can lead to OsteoporosisSedentary lifestyle, heavy alcohol consumption, Smoking increase risk of Osteoporosis.

Persons (especially post menopausal women) at-risk for Osteoporosis should essentially go for screening with bone densitometry.

Osteoporosis, being a silent disease does not show prominent symptoms at the initial stages. Mild low back pain or neck pain may occur which are often neglected.In the progressive stages, severe pains may be experienced all of a sudden. Pain worsens because of lifting heavy weights. Pain continues for months.Bone fracture because of some fall or injury, which may not necessarily be a major incident and wouldn't cause a fracture under normal circumstances.Bone Mineral Density test (BMD) measurement helps to detect the Osteoporosis condition at an early stage and even confirms whether a person is at risk.Bone demineralization can be also detected by X-rays. The test is not very reliable in terms of accuracy in comparison with BMD test.First and foremost measure that has to be taken is of preventing further bone degeneration. This can be achieved by increasing the intake of Calcium through diet or by consuming dietary supplements. Prevention of fractures. Specialists suggest the diet and exercise prevent further damage to the bone. Exercise regime may include cycling, walking and weight-bearing work outs. These exercises must be done under the strict supervision of the doctor.Avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, reducing or ceasing usage of hormones like corticosteroids would help keep check on the progress of the disease.Estrogen Replacement Therapy (type of Hormone Replacement Therapy) is a common mode of treatment in women who have recently entered the menopausal phase. But Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is not recommended for long term because of the risk of cancer. Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation is an additive therapy to HRT.Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) are recommended to women who do not prefer or are unable to take Hormone Replacement Therapy.

Osteoporosis can cripple! This fact is not to be neglected. It is wise to get a regular medical check up done, especially in the elderly. Self medication might not do the needful and may lead to adverse effects instead. So it is preferable to deal with Osteoporosis under the guidance of a doctor.

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that eats away the bones! It is commonly termed as a silent disease because the symptoms are such that they are ignored or misdiagnosed. Are you suffering from back pain? Is it difficult for you to complete normal everyday tasks? Here is information about back pain as well as treatments that will ... Lack of regular exercise along with wear and tear of muscles can be contributing factors to joint pain. Some specific exercises can help strengthen the muscles ... Osteoporosis has both preventive as well as treatment options, but it is wise to abide by the preventive measures so as to avoid the disease state. Other than the ...