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osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by the weakening of bones, resulting from decreased density and thickness. Individuals with osteoporosis face a significantly higher risk of sustaining bone fractures. Normally, bones possess sufficient density and strength to bear body weight and withstand various impacts. However, with aging, bones naturally undergo a reduction in density and lose some capacity for self-regeneration (remodeling). In the presence of osteoporosis, bones become notably more brittle and
weaker than they should be.  Often, individuals remain unaware of their osteoporosis until they experience a bone fracture as a result of the condition. Seeking early diagnosis of osteoporosis from a healthcare provider can reduce the risk of bone fractures. It's advisable to discuss with Dr. Vivek Badhe for  assessing your bone density, particularly if you are aged 65 or older, have experienced a bone fracture after turning 50, if there's a family history of osteoporosis.

Risk factors for Osteoporosis

Factors that can increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis include:

  • Age: Individuals over 50 years old are at a higher risk.

  • Gender: People assigned female at birth (AFAB), especially those in postmenopause, have an elevated risk.

  • Family history: A family history of osteoporosis increases the likelihood.

  • Body composition: Those with thinner frames or naturally thin stature are more susceptible due to lower natural bone mass.

  • Tobacco use: Smoking or the use of tobacco products heightens the risk.

Certain health conditions can also contribute to osteoporosis:

  • Endocrine disorders: Conditions affecting the parathyroid glands, thyroid gland, and hormones such as thyroid disease and diabetes.

  • Gastrointestinal diseases: Conditions like celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

  • Autoimmune disorders: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis that impact the bones.

  • Blood disorders: Conditions including multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting the blood.

Additionally, specific medications and surgical procedures can increase the risk:

  • Diuretics: Medications used to lower blood pressure and eliminate excess fluid.

  • Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory medications.

  • Anticonvulsants: Medications for seizure control.

  • Bariatric surgery: Weight loss surgery.

  • Hormone therapy: Including treatments for breast or prostate cancer.

  • Anticoagulants: Medications that prevent blood clotting.

  • Proton pump inhibitors: Used for acid reflux, which can affect calcium absorption.

Dietary and lifestyle factors that may contribute to osteoporosis risk include:

  • Inadequate calcium or vitamin D intake.

  • Lack of physical exercise.

  • Excessive alcohol consumption (more than two drinks per day).

Causes of Osteoporosis

  • As you age, osteoporosis develops due to the diminished capacity of your bones to regenerate and renew themselves. Bones, like other tissues in your body, are living structures. Despite appearing static, they undergo a continuous turnover process of cell and tissue replacement throughout your lifespan. Until approximately the age of 30, your body typically generates more bone than it loses. However, beyond age 35, the rate of bone breakdown surpasses the rate of bone formation, resulting in a gradual decline in bone mass. Individuals with osteoporosis experience an accelerated loss of bone mass. Moreover, postmenopausal women tend to undergo bone mass loss at an even swifter pace.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

  • Osteoporosis is often referred to as a "silent disease" by healthcare providers because it typically doesn't present noticeable symptoms like many other health conditions.  Individuals with osteoporosis do not typically experience symptoms such as headaches, fever, or stomachaches that might indicate a problem within the body. The most common indication of osteoporosis is the occurrence of bone fractures, particularly following minor falls or accidents that would not typically cause significant injury. While osteoporosis itself may not directly produce symptoms, there are certain changes in the body that may suggest a loss of bone strength or density. These potential indicators include a decrease in height by an inch or more, alterations in natural
    posture resulting in stooping or increased forward bending, difficulty breathing due to compression of spinal vertebrae affecting lung capacity, and lower back pain originating from the lumbar spine. Noticing changes in one's own physical appearance can sometimes be challenging, but loved ones may be more likely to observe differences, particularly in height or posture. While the notion of older adults "shrinking" is sometimes joked about, it can serve as a signal to visit a healthcare provider for a bone density test.

Diagnosis of Osteoporosis

  • Dr. Vivek Badhe diagnoses osteoporosis through a bone density test, also known as a DEXA scan, DXA scan, or bone mineral density scan. This imaging procedure assesses bone strength by measuring calcium and other mineral levels using X-rays. A bone density test involves low levels of X-rays to evaluate  bone density and mineral content, much like a standard X-ray. It is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home immediately afterward. The test does not involve needles or injections.  Regular bone density tests are recommended for individuals with a family history of osteoporosis, those aged over 50, or those diagnosed with osteopenia. Monitoring changes in bone density is crucial for early detection of osteoporosis
    before it leads to bone fractures.

Treatment of Osteoporosis

Dr. Vivek Badhe will recommend a combination of treatments aimed at slowing down bone loss and  strengthening existing bone tissue to prevent fractures, which is crucial in managing osteoporosis.
Common osteoporosis treatment options include:
 

  • Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can enhance bone strength along with the surrounding tissues like muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Weight-bearing exercises may be recommended to strengthen muscles and improve balance. Activities such as walking, yoga, Pilates, and tai chi are  beneficial for enhancing strength and balance without exerting excessive stress on the bones. Collaborating with a physical therapist can help identify suitable exercises and movements tailored to your needs.

  • Vitamin and mineral supplements: Depending on your specific requirements, Dr. Vivek Badhe may advise over-the-counter or prescription calcium or vitamin D supplements. Dr. Vivek Badhe will determine the type, frequency, and dosage of supplements necessary for your condition.

  • Osteoporosis medications: Dr. Vivek Badhe will prescribe medications tailored to your individual needs and health status. Common medications used to treat osteoporosis include hormone therapies like estrogen or testosterone replacement and bisphosphonates. Individuals with severe osteoporosis or high fracture risk may require medications such as parathyroid hormone (PTH) analogs, denosumab, which are typically administered through injections.

Book an Appointment

To book an appointment with Dr. Vivek Badhe, click on the button given below. It will take you to our booking portal.

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