Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle, making them more likely to break. It develops slowly over several years and is often only diagnosed when a minor fall or sudden impact causes a bone to break.
The most common bones affected are the hip, wrist, and spine. A broken bone can have serious consequences – it takes longer to heal when you have osteoporosis, and it is more difficult to regain mobility. There may also be longer-term disability and loss of independence.
Why does it happen?
As we age, old bone is removed faster than new bone can be created to replace it. In osteoporosis, this process happens too quickly. More bone is lost than replaced. This leads bones to become less dense and weaker.
Women are at a higher risk due to the rapid bone loss that occurs in the years after menopause when estrogen levels drop. Men can develop osteoporosis too, but this tends to happen 5-10 years later than women.
Other risk factors include:
- Family history – Osteoporosis tends to run in families
- Low calcium intake – An inadequate calcium intake causes more bone to be resorbed
- Lack of weight-bearing exercise
- Smoking and excessive alcohol intake
Osteoporosis often develops with very few signs or symptoms until a bone breaks. However, some early signs can include:
- Loss of height – Compression of spine bones
- Stooped posture
- Back pain – Can indicate a fractured or collapsed vertebra
What can you do?
The good news is there are things you can do to maintain healthy bones:
- Get enough calcium and vitamin D – From food sources and possibly supplements
- Do weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise 2-3 times a week
- Avoid smoking and keep alcohol intake within recommended limits
- Have a bone density test if you're at risk - medication may be required
- Make your home safer – Remove trip hazards, install grab rails
The key is being proactive in looking after your bone health throughout life. It's never too late to make positive changes to reduce your risk of fractures. Speak to your doctor if you have concerns about osteoporosis.