This disease is characterized by too much bone loss and the formation of too little bone or both. Hence, the bones can become weak making it vulnerable to fractures that can occur even with coughing. Osteoporosis refers to the porous bone and when the normal bones are observed under the microscope, the bone appears to be like a honeycomb. This condition is determined by the spaces and holes in the honeycomb that appears to be larger than is evident in the healthy bones. The common sites of fractures include the hip, the wrist or the spine. This is often considered to be a silent condition as the bone loss can occur without the individual realizing it. Studies suggest that one in two women and one in four men over the age of 50 are at increased risk of fractures that can occur from osteoporosis.
Causes
Among the young people, the new bones form faster than the bones break down and as the result, the bone mass increases. As people age, the bone mass can decrease faster than the body can develop it. This condition is also based on the amount of bone mass that is attained during the youth. If the bone mass is high, then it is unlikely that the individual can develop osteoporosis. There are also several risk factors associated with the bone loss and to the development of the disease. Some of them include the process of ageing, body size, sex hormones, calcium and vitamin D intake, drinking alcohol and smoking. The low levels of estrogen among women either from missing periods or due to menopause and the low level of testosterone among men can cause this disease. Sometimes, taking certain medications and lack of exercise can also cause weak bones.
Symptoms
In the initial stage of the disease, there are no symptoms indicating bone loss. The symptoms may only occur when the bones have become weakened. Some of the symptoms of osteoporosis include back pain because of collapsed vertebra, reduced height over time and bone fractures that occur more easily. It is important to seek medical evaluation of the condition particularly if an individual has an early menopause or has taken corticosteroids for prolonged period of time.
Diagnosis
If the condition is suspected, an assessment can be done using an online program called FRAX which can help predict the individual’s risk of fracture between the ages of 40 and 90. The bone density test uses a machine that uses low levels of x-rays to detect the proportion of minerals of the bones. The decreased bone density is known as osteopenia but not low enough to be identified as osteoporosis.
Treatment
The treatment is based on preventing the fractures and the use of medications to strengthen the bones. The treatment options are based on the risk of fracture, the age and the sex of the individual. Treatment can also include a balanced diet that is rich in vitamin D and calcium and an exercise plan.
References
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health_info/bone/osteoporosis/osteoporosis_ff.asp
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Osteoporosis/Pages/Introduction.aspx
https://www.nof.org/patients/what-is-osteoporosis/
http://www.osteoporosis.ca/osteoporosis-and-you/diagnosis/
