Osteoporosis: Preventing and Managing Bone Loss

North Beverley Medical Centre

Pighill Lane
Off Woodall Way
BEVERLEY
HU17 7JY
Telephone: 01482 882546

Medical Emergencies dial 999

Out of Hours:  dial  111

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OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. It develops slowly over several years and is often only diagnosed when a fall or sudden impact causes a bone to break (fracture).

Causes

  • Age:
    • Bone density naturally decreases with age.
  • Gender: 
    • Women, especially postmenopausal women, are at higher risk.
  • Family History:
    • A family history of osteoporosis increases risk.
  • Hormonal Changes:
    • Lowered levels of Oestrogen in women and testosterone in men can affect bone density.
  • Dietary Factors:
    • Low calcium and vitamin D intake, excessive alcohol consumption, and eating disorders can contribute to osteoporosis.
  • Medications:
    • Long-term use of corticosteroids and other medications can affect bone health.
  • Lifestyle:
    • Sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and excessive alcohol use can increase risk.

Symptoms

  • Bone Fractures:
    • Especially in the hip, spine, or wrist.
  • Back Pain: 
    • Caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra.
  • Loss of Height:
    • Over time, due to vertebral fractures.
  • Hormonal Changes:
    • Lowered levels of Oestrogen in women and testosterone in men can affect bone density.
  • Stooped Posture:
    • Kyphosis, or a hunched back.

Diagnosis

  • Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan)
    • Measures bone mineral density.
  • X-rays : 
    • To detect fractures.
  • Loss of Height:
    • Over time, due to vertebral fractures.
  • Blood and Urine Tests: 
    • To rule out other conditions and assess levels of calcium and vitamin D

Treatment Options

1. Medications:

  • Bisphosphonates:
    • Such as alendronate, risedronate, ibandronate, and zoledronic acid, to slow bone loss.
  • Hormone-Related Therapy:
    • Estrogen therapy for postmenopausal women or testosterone replacement for men.
  • Denosumab :
    • A monoclonal antibody that slows bone loss.
  • Teriparatide and Abaloparatide:
    • Medications that stimulate new bone growth.
  • Raloxifene: 
    • Mimics estrogen’s beneficial effects on bone density.

2. Diet and Supplements:

  • Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements:
    • Essential for bone health..
  • Diet::
    • Rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

3. Exercise:

  • Weight-Bearing Exercises:
    • Such as walking, jogging, and climbing stairs.
  • Strength Training:
    • Lifting weights to strengthen muscles and bones.
  • Balance Exercises :
    • To reduce the risk of falls.

5. Lifestyle Changes

  • Quit Smoking: :
    • Smoking can accelerate bone loss
  • Limit Alcohol:
    • Excessive alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb calcium.

Prevention

  • Adequate Calcium and Vitamin D Intake :
    • Through diet or supplements.
  • Regular Exercise:
    • Including weight-bearing, strength training, and balance exercises.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
    • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Regular Bone Density Tests:
    • Especially for those at higher risk.

When to See a Doctor

  • Unexplained back pain or bone pain.
  • Loss of height over time.
  • Suspected fractures from minor injuries.
  • Risk factors that could lead to osteoporosis.

Consulting with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan is essential for effectively managing osteoporosis.