Osteoporosis, what is it, and what does it mean?
Osteoporosis, the bone disease, what does this mean?
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis translates to “porous bone.” Basically, the bone structure becomes abnormal and more porous by being filled with empty space. This means that our bones have lost density, and become weak or brittle, and are more prone to breaks and fractures. The National Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that 54 million people in the United States have osteoporosis.
How does it start?
Osteoporosis develops over time from decreased bone density. Our body is constantly producing bone and reabsorbing old bone as a normal process in our bodies. However, as we get older we produce less bone, but continue to absorb bone at a continued pace. This process causes bone density to diminish and thus leading to osteoporosis. Bone density peaks in the late 20’s and can begin decreasing as early as the 30’s. It becomes more common once we enter our 50’s due to the natural process of the “disease.” It is also more common for post menopausal women to suffer from osteoporosis due to the hormonal changes that take place.
Can I prevent osteoporosis?
Bone absorption is a natural process that occurs in our bodies, so we cannot prevent this process from occurring, but we can do some things to fight the process. Lifestyle changes are one of the best ways to fight osteoporosis.
Calcium and Vitamin D are important factors in maintaining bone health, so a proper diet is a great start.
If you’re smoking, stop! Other than osteoporosis, it contributes to a number of known health issues.
Do not drink excess alcohol. For most, this means no more than 2 drinks per day.
Exercise! Weight bearing and weight resistance exercises (lifting weights) are shown to provide excellent results. As we lift weights and do weight bearing activities (like walking), our body receives signals to lay down more bone and strengthen the structure of bone.
There are many drugs out there that are recommended for osteoporosis treatment, but it’s highly recommended you consult your doctor.
Am I at risk for developing osteoporosis?
There are many factors that can contribute to the progression of osteoporosis. Some of these factors are modifiable, but others can predispose you just because of your genetic makeup.
Non-modifiable factors:
Gender: Women are more susceptible than men, especially after menopause.
Age: Unfortunately this process is age related, the older you are, the greater the risk.
Ancestry: White and Asian descent increases risk.
Family: It’s genetic, if parents or siblings have it, you may develop it as well.
Body size: If you’re thin or have a smaller frame, your risk increases.
Various medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, kidney disease, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis are some of the medical conditions that can increase the likelihood of osteoporosis.
Modifiable factors:
We’ve already talked about many of these with the above section talking about prevention, so good for you for already informing yourself, keep it up!
Drugs: Certain drugs can increase your risk, especially long term steroid use, this includes prednisone and cortisone injections.
How can I tell if I have osteoporosis?
Because osteoporosis is progressive and tends to be more common the older we get it’s often recommended that people get an osteoporosis screening by the age of 65. Osteoporosis is often referred to as the silent disease because most people do not have any symptoms that will reveal whether or not they have osteoporosis until they break a bone and they get imaging done. Several various factors may indicate that you are at risk for developing osteoporosis so it’s generally recommended to keep track of the factors mentioned above and talk with your doctor about your potential risk.