Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is an ailment that gradually weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures.
Although this can occur in either sex, it is more common in women, especially after Menopause. This is because the hormonal changes that take place after Menopause lead to weakening of bones, thereby causing Osteoporosis. This increase the risk of fractures, especially of the hip, spine and forearms. In fact, over 40 percent of women who have undergone Menopause are at the risk of developing Osteoporosis.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to lower your risk and prevent Osteoporosis. This brochure answers some of the commonly asked questions on Osteoporosis. In the following pages you will find Information on
- Causes of Osteoporosis
- Symptomsand Effects of Osteoporosis
- Detection of Osteoporosis
- Bone Densitometry
- Care and Guidance
Causes of Osteoporosis
There exists a natural cycle in our bodies which causes a continuous degeneration of old bone cells with a simultaneous building of new ones. These processes are usually in balance, so that the amount of bone loss is about equal to the amount that is replaced.
Osteoporosis is caused when there is an imbalance due to which the degeneration outpaces the rebuilding.
Who is most susceptible to Osteoporosis?
Menopause is the single most important cause of Osteoporosis, but you are also at risk if you:
- Have a family history of Osteoporosis
- Had Menopause before you were 45 years old
- Arethinorsmallinstature
- Have used steroids (commonly used to treat asthma and arthritis)
- Have used high does of thyroid hormones
- Smoke
- Drink excessive alcohol
- Do not exercise enough
- Have calcium deficiency
How is Menopause related to Osteoporosis?
In women, the balance between bone building and bone loss is disturbed during Menopause due to the hormonal changes occurring at this time. Where you are younger, your body produces hormones like estrogen to prepare you for pregnancy. During Menopause, however, the level of estrogen produced in your body begins to drop. This drop leads to a faster breakdown of bone tissue and the tissue being replaced can not keep pace with it. In fact, during the first five years after Menopause, some women may lose as much as 25 percent of their bone density. In many women, this bone loss is severe enough to make bones weak and fragile. This causes Osteoporosis.
A surgical Menopause, which occurs in women who have undergone a surgical removal of ovaries, leads to similar hormonal changes and thereby increases risk of Osteoporosis.
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Symptoms of Osteoporosis
What are the symptoms of Osteoporosis?
The early stages of Osteoporosis are relatively painless and symptom free. In fact, many women who have undergone Menopause do not even realise it when thisailment beginstosetin.
But once the symptoms of Osteoporosis begin to surface, these could include.
- Pain in the back
- Loss in height
- Acurving spine
- A broken bone or a history of broken bones.
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Detection of Osteoporosis
How is Osteoporosis detected?
An X-Ray for some other medical reason could reveal Osteoporosis, although X-Rays only reveal signs of Osteoporosis when bone loss is quite advanced.
Osteoporosis can be detected at an early stage with a routine 'Bone Density Test', also called Bone Densitometry.
This may be recommended as a routine test after Menopause.
You must visit your doctor at Max Healthcare for a regular checkup if you:
- Are above 40 years of age
- Have undergone Menopause
- Have back pain, height loss or a bone that fracture easily.
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Care and Guidance
- Calcium plays an important role in maintaining the health of your bones. Make sure you get your daily dose of calcium through a minimum of three cups of milk or equivalent in cheese and curd. You could also take a dose of calcium tablet (1000-1500 mg/day)
- Regular brisk walking, running, tennis and low impact aerobics can help increase the strength of your bones.
How do I receive more information and guidance on Osteoporosis?
To receive the latest information on osteoporosis and bone density testing for yourself, a friend or a family member, call your doctor at Max Healthcare where you will receive guidance from experienced medical professionals on the best methods of prevention and treatment of Osteoporosis.
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