Osteoporosis—a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and prone to fractures. Understanding osteoporosis is key to prevention and management.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease where bone breakdown exceeds bone formation, resulting in thinner, less dense bones. This increases the risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist. Even minor falls or stresses can cause bone breakage.
Who is at Risk?
Several factors contribute to osteoporosis risk:
Signs and Symptoms:
Osteoporosis often has no noticeable symptoms initially, making it a "silent disease." Diagnosis often follows a fracture. However, subtle indicators may include:
Diagnosis:
A bone density test (DEXA scan) measures bone mineral density to assess fracture risk.
Treatment and Prevention:
Several strategies can protect bones or manage existing osteoporosis:
In a nutshell: Osteoporosis is a serious but manageable condition. Proactive bone health measures are crucial for fracture prevention and maintaining quality of life. Consult your doctor with any bone health concerns; early detection and intervention are vital.
Keywords: Osteoporosis, bone density, bone health, DEXA scan, calcium, vitamin D, fractures, bone loss, risk factors, prevention.