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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease that is common in older individuals. It is characterized by bone weakness, as well as decreasing bone mass and density. It can make people very susceptible to fractures.

326 Questions

What are 3 factors for osteoporosis?

Three key factors that contribute to osteoporosis are age, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. As people age, bone density naturally decreases, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, hormonal changes, particularly a decrease in estrogen in women during menopause, significantly impact bone health. Lastly, inadequate intake of essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D can weaken bones and promote the development of osteoporosis.

Why does osteoporosis affect whites and asians more than blacks?

Osteoporosis tends to affect whites and Asians more than Blacks due to several factors, including genetic predispositions, differences in bone density, and hormonal influences. Studies have shown that individuals of European and Asian descent typically have lower peak bone mass compared to those of African descent, who often have denser bones and a lower risk of fractures. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and vitamin D levels can contribute to these disparities. Overall, a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors plays a role in the differences in osteoporosis prevalence among these racial groups.

Does osteoporosis effect height?

Yes, osteoporosis can affect height. As the condition weakens bones, it can lead to vertebral fractures and compression in the spine, resulting in a loss of height over time. This shrinkage can be particularly noticeable in older adults, as the cumulative effects of osteoporosis may lead to significant changes in posture and spinal alignment. Regular monitoring and preventive measures can help mitigate height loss associated with osteoporosis.

What is considered borderline osteoporosis?

Borderline osteoporosis, often referred to as osteopenia, is a condition characterized by bone density that is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It typically indicates a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) that falls between -1.0 and -2.5 standard deviations from the young adult mean, as measured by a DEXA scan. Individuals with osteopenia are at an increased risk for developing osteoporosis and fractures, making early intervention and lifestyle modifications important. Regular monitoring and preventive measures, such as diet and exercise, are recommended for those diagnosed with this condition.

Is osteoporosis reversible?

Some people are successful in reversing borderline osteoporosis, but not usually with exercise alone. Talk to your doctor about getting the right amount of vitamin D and calcium, as well as a good workout plan that includes weight bearing exercises. Also, smokers need to quit smoking.

How did osteoporosis get its name?

Osteoporosis means thin bones. "osteo" means bone plus "poro" means holes plus "sis" means process.

Which foods and exercises can help a person prevent osteoporosis?

fat-free milk and milk products and resistance-training exercises

What animals can get osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a weakening of the bone matrix to the point that the bones can break under normal conditions such as walking, sitting, standing, etc. This can happen in any animal with calcified bones, although it is rare in companion animals as commercial blended diets (such as Purina, Iams-Eukanuba, Hill's, Royal Canin, etc.) are formulated with sufficient calcium to prevent this. In addition, most companion animals do not go through a process like menopause, which is linked to osteoporosis in human females.

Is cervical lordosis an early stage of osteoporosis?

No, a cervical lordosis is the normal curve of your cervical spine (neck).

How do you slow down osteoporosis?

Exercise, calcium supplementation, and bisphosphonate prescription medicine when indicated.

When do I need to worry about osteoporosis and what should I do to prevent it?

Preventing osteoporosis should be a lifelong quest. Throughout your life you should consume calcium and magnesium and do weight-bearing exercise. The amount of calcium that you should take will increase with age.

How to Know What to Expect From Osteoporosis Treatment?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density decreases, which causes bones to become weak and fragile. Bones may break due to minor injury that usually would not cause a break in a person with sturdier bones. Bone fractures due to osteoporosis can occur in almost any bone in the human skeleton. There are numerous recommended precautions used to prevent the onset of osteoporosis. Therapy and medication are used to treat the condition.

Prevention

It is recommended that everyone, especially women, consume the recommended daily amount of calcium. Some people, particularly women, also take calcium supplements. Daily exercise, such as walking, may increase muscle strength and coordination, which may reduce the risk of injury from falls. Smoking may lead to loss of bone mass, so quitting smoking may help to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Early detection of osteoporosis can prevent further bone loss. Bone density testing is used to determine if a person is at risk for osteoporosis or if a person has developed osteoporosis. Bone density testing is recommended for:

--Postmenopausal women under 65 that have osteoporosis risk factors

--Women aged 65+

--Women with medical conditions that may cause osteoporosis

--Postmenopausal women who have bone fractures

Treatment Plans

The function of prescribed medications for osteoporosis is to increase the strength of bones and to stop bone loss. The most popular medications used to treat osteoporosis are Fosamax, Evista, Actonel, Calcimar, Reclast, and Boniva. Consult a doctor to learn more about medications and treatment. Never take any medication unless it is prescribed by a physician.

Physical therapy programs may help to improve posture and balance. These programs may also help to build bone and muscle strength, which can reduce the risk of fracture due to falls.

Some physicians may recommend hormone therapy, in which patients are given estrogen to help maintain healthy bone density. However, there are many concerns about the safety and the risks of using hormone therapy. Hormone therapy can increase a patient’s risk of blood clotting, certain types of cancer, and heart disease. For these reasons, hormone therapy is not generally considered to be a first-choice treatment plan.

Can you donate blood if you have osteoporosis?

It depends on your particular doctor (wheather he or she will allow you I know not) but I say you should not.