Both men and women are impacted by this often-symptomless disease, but women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis, or low bone density. Some 54 million Americans suffer from osteoporosis and the painful fractures that can result from having weakened bones.
Osteoporosis occurs when the body’s natural process of rebuilding bone slows too much. Up until age 35, the body extracts calcium from its storage place in the center of the bone and new bone replaces it. The process slows as we age, until more bone is broken down than is rebuilt. When that process happens too quickly, bones become brittle and weak and can break easily.
Women are more at risk because upon entering menopause, bone loss speeds up, so that after age 50 one in two women will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture. For men the rate is one in four.
What are the risk factors?
- Women over 50, as menopause slows down the production of estrogen, which protects against bone loss.
- A body build that is thin and petite, as there is less bone mass to start with.
- A family history of osteoporosis or bone breaks, especially involving the hip.
- Certain medical conditions that may involve irregular hormone levels, including overactive thyroid, organ transplant, celiac disease, or hormone treatment for cancer.
One of the biggest challenges faced by women and their doctors is that osteoporosis often develops with no symptoms. The result is a diagnosis after the disease has already developed and caused a fracture. The good news is you can help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis by eating a diet that is high in calcium and vitamin D, maintaining an active lifestyle, and engaging in a regular exercise program. Doctors also recommend avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
Osteoporosis treatment will usually include exercise with the addition of vitamin and mineral supplements. Depending on how advanced the disease is, medical therapies, including hormone therapy or anabolic agents may help protect you from painful fractures. Your doctor can advise you based on your bone density scores.
What you can do
While osteoporosis tends to be a silent disease, doctors encourage a consultation if you notice or have experienced any of the following:
- Loss of height by an inch or more
- A bone fracture, especially in the wrist, hip, or spine
- You are tending to stoop or bend forward
- Pain in your lower back
- Sudden shortness of breath
If you are concerned about your risk for osteoporosis, the doctors at Stark Women’s Center can help. Bone mineral density tests, also called DEXA scans, provide valuable information about bone density and your risk for developing osteoporosis. While DEXA scans are generally recommended for women over 65, younger women who are at greater risk may benefit from having one sooner. Women with -2.5 bone density or lower can benefit from therapy.
For more information about osteoporosis or to schedule a consultation to determine your risk, call Stark Women’s today.