Osteoporosis; the silent disease that should not be ignored
Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease characterised by reduced bone density and strength. In this condition, bones become weaker and more fragile, increasing the risk of fractures, even from minor impacts or falls.
This disease usually has no obvious symptoms in the early stages, and many people are unaware of their condition until a fracture occurs. Therefore, awareness of risk factors, timely diagnosis and adherence to preventive measures are very important.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is often asymptomatic in its early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may appear such as:
- Bone fractures from minor impacts
- Gradual loss of height
- Curvature of the back and changes in spinal posture
- Back or lumbar pain, particularly if vertebral fractures occur.
It is important to note that bone or back pain alone does not necessarily indicate osteoporosis, and a definitive diagnosis requires medical evaluation.
What factors increase the risk of developing osteoporosis?
Various factors can increase the likelihood of this disease, including:
- Ageing, especially in older years
- Menopause and decreased oestrogen levels
- Family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture
- Insufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D
- Lack of physical activity and not exercising regularly
- Smoking and alcohol consumption
- Low body weight
- Long-term use of certain medications, especially corticosteroids.
- Having certain underlying conditions that affect bone health
Of course, osteoporosis is not only limited to older women; men and younger people can also be at risk.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
One of the main ways to diagnose osteoporosis is by measuring bone density (BMD) using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry or DXA. This test usually measures bone density in the lumbar spine and hip and helps the doctor assess the risk of fractures and make decisions about treatment.
The doctor decides whether a bone density test is necessary based on age, fracture history, risk factors, medications, and individual conditions. In some cases, a blood test is also requested to check for underlying causes of low bone density.
How to prevent osteoporosis?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help preserve bone health:
- Adequate calcium intake: Consuming a balanced amount of dairy, suitable vegetables and other calcium-rich foods helps maintain bone strength.
- Ensuring vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a role in calcium absorption. The need for supplements should be determined based on individual conditions and a doctor’s advice.
- Regular physical activity: Walking, weight-bearing exercises and strengthening and balance exercises, appropriate to the individual’s ability, help maintain bone health and reduce the risk of falling.
- Balanced nutrition: Adequate intake of protein and other nutrients is essential for bone and muscle health.
- Avoiding tobacco: Smoking can affect bone health.
- Fall prevention: Adapting the home environment, wearing appropriate shoes and checking for vision and balance problems, especially in the elderly, is important.
Osteoporosis Treatment
Osteoporosis treatment is determined based on the degree of bone density loss, fracture history, age, and other risk factors. Lifestyle modification and providing the necessary nutrients are important parts of care; however, in high-risk individuals, medication may also be necessary.
Various medications are available to reduce fracture risk and help maintain or increase bone density. The choice of medication and duration of treatment should be made by a doctor based on each patient’s circumstances. Self-prescription of supplements or discontinuation of prescribed medications is not recommended.
Who should undergo bone density measurement?
Women aged ۶۵ and older, younger postmenopausal women who have significant risk factors, and men or other individuals who, based on medical assessment, are at increased risk of fractures may need to have their bone density measured.
Additionally, the occurrence of fractures from minor trauma can be a reason to check bone health.
Bone density measurement; an important step in keeping your bones healthy
Osteoporosis is a disease that can be identified and, in many cases, managed. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes and proper treatment can help reduce the risk of fractures and maintain quality of life.
If you are in a high-risk group or have a history of fractures from minor injuries, talk to your doctor to check your bone health.