Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them easier to break. It develops when bone resorption outpaces bone formation.
Who does osteoporosis affect?
Osteoporosis most commonly affects older adults and postmenopausal women due to declining estrogen levels. However, secondary osteoporosis can develop at any age due to certain medications or diseases. Factors like genetics, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise can also play a role.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis? Unfortunately, osteoporosis does not cause symptoms until fractures occur. Some common osteoporotic fractures happen in the wrist, hip, and spine. Fractures severely impact quality of life and ability to live independently.
How is osteoporosis prevented and treated? Building strong bones during youth and preserving bone strength during adulthood are crucial to preventing osteoporosis later on. Weight-bearing exercise, consuming calcium and Vitamin D, avoiding tobacco, moderating alcohol, and building muscle through resistance training can optimize bone health.
If osteoporosis is diagnosed, medications like bisphosphonates help slow/prevent bone loss. Estrogen-like drugs treat symptoms for postmenopausal women. We also offer specialized hormone optimization plans at Hormone Wellness Center to help balance hormone levels related to bone health. Our holistic protocols go beyond just managing disease by proactively addressing the root causes for conditions like osteoporosis.
What else increases osteoporosis risk? Many factors influence osteoporosis risk, including:
Rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, type 1 diabetes, and other diseases can also negatively impact bone density over time.
The takeaway
Osteoporosis arises when bone breakdown outpaces bone building, diminishing bone density and quality. Though more common in older women, many factors influence who develops osteoporosis. Prevention starts early by building strong bones through proper nutrition and exercise. Hormone Wellness Center offers customized plans to optimize hormonal balance related to bone health. Staying active, eating nutritiously, and working with a doctor to address risk factors are key to preventing painful osteoporotic fractures later on.
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