Osteoporosis is a very common bone disorder that slowly and silently causes the progressive loss of bone density. As the bone becomes less dense, it increases the risk of a fracture even without significant trauma occurring. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, osteoporosis affects about 54 million Americans. As many as 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men above age 50 will have a fracture caused by it. Unfortunately, fractures do not only cause pain. Because of the immobility caused by it, some complications may include infection, blood clots and in extreme cases can possibly lead to death.
There are risk factors associated with osteoporosis. It impacts women more than men with the older population being at a higher risk. Estrogen is a protective factor so post-menopausal women taking "anti-estrogen" medications, as seen in breast cancer treatments, increases the risk. Drinking too much alcohol or smoking also increases the risk so avoiding this is important. Family history of this disorder can also increase the chances for osteoporosis.
Certain medical conditions are also culprits in increasing the risk for bone density loss. They include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease, certain cancers, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease and hyperparathyroidism are just a few. Certain medications have been linked as well. These include chronic steroids, methotrexate, certain epilepsy treatments (i.e. Dilantin), and hormonal prostate cancer and breast cancer therapies. Medications for acid reflux have been shown to possibly lower the magnesium level which is bad because magnesium is necessary for calcium to work effectively. Calcium is necessary for maintaining strong bones. Therefore, magnesium levels need to be checked if acid reflux medications are being taken.
To help protect against osteoporosis, it is important to get the proper amount of both calcium and vitamin D daily. The average calcium amount per day should be 1200mg, taking into account both dietary forms and supplements. Common food sources include milk, yoghurt, cheese, orange juice, beans and almonds. Less calcium is advised for those who have had kidney stones previously or have a parathyroid condition. The usual vitamin D amount advised is 400-800 units daily, but this amount is changed if the vitamin D blood level is found to be low. Weight bearing exercises are very helpful while also working to increase your balance and the prevention of falls. A very common time to fall is in the middle of the night while going to the bathroom Tripping over items on the way in the dark, while you are sleepy, is a common problem. Make sure to have a clutter free path aided with the use of nightlights.
Getting your bone density checked is vital. It usually begins at age 50 in women and 65 in men. Those ages may be lower for those at a higher risk. The bone density is usually checked every 2 years if abnormal. It is important to realize that osteoporosis is a treatable condition with many options to choose from. Please make an appointment with your primary care physician to review your risks, and get tested if you are due. And remember, even though this condition is silent, it can cause great pain and harm if it goes untreated. Do take an active step in your health and find out what your bone density is. Prevention does save lives.
