What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens the bones and makes them more prone to fractures (breaks). It is caused by a loss of bone density, which can occur as a result of ageing, hormonal changes, or certain medical conditions or treatments.
Women are more likely than males to develop osteoporosis, especially after menopause, when oestrogen production, a hormone that helps maintain bone density, declines. However, men can also develop osteoporosis, especially if they have low testosterone levels or have certain medical conditions that affect bone health.
Symptoms of osteoporosis may not appear until a bone is fractured. Fractures caused by osteoporosis are most common in the spine, wrist, and hip. Other signs and symptoms may include a loss of height, a stooped posture, and back pain.
Osteoporosis can be prevented or treated with a combination of lifestyle changes (such as getting enough calcium and vitamin D, exercising regularly, and not smoking) and medications. In case, if you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or are at risk for the disease, it is crucial to talk to a healthcare professional.
Osteoporosis frequently goes unnoticed. For this reason, it is occasionally referred to as a quiet illness. But keep an eye out for these things:
- The Decline in height (getting shorter by an inch or more).
- Adaptation of posture (stooping or bending forward).
- breathing difficulty (smaller lung capacity due to compressed disks).
- Broken bones.
- the lower back hurts.
You can talk to your doctor about pharmaceutical concerns. And you are responsible for your:
Eating habits: If your body doesn’t get enough calcium and vitamin D, you’re more likely to get osteoporosis. Despite being risk factors, eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia can be treated.
Lifestyle: Sedentary (inactive) people are more likely to develop osteoporosis.
Smoking: Smoking raises the possibility of fractures.
Alcohol consumption: Having two drinks (or more) a day raises your risk of developing osteoporosis.