Osteoporosis in Women

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects an individual’s bones, often due to hormonal changes or nutrient deficiencies. As reported in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 61 million people in India have this condition, out of which 80% are women. If left untreated, osteoporosis can lead to severe fractures, loss of bone density, and, potentially, a loss of independence.

Recognising the causes and signs of osteoporosis in women can help individuals seek timely medical attention, making treatment more effective and preventing the condition from rapidly worsening. This article explores osteoporosis, its causes, symptoms, and risk factors.

What is Osteoporosis?

Human bones are living tissue that constantly breaks down and needs to be replaced. They are dense and typically strong enough to support an individual’s weight and absorb the impact of most falls or injuries. Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones.

When an individual has osteoporosis, their bones become thinner and less dense than usual. The creation of new bone can also not keep up with the loss of the old. This causes the bones to become weak, fragile, and brittle. They are unable to bear even minor impacts and injuries; even minor falls or stressors like coughing or bending over can cause the bones to break.

Osteoporosis mainly causes breaks in the hips, spine, or wrists and is most commonly detected when a patient breaks a bone. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent bone fractures.

What Causes Osteoporosis? 

Osteoporosis causes depend on several factors. As mentioned earlier, human bones are in a constant state of renewal. When an individual is young, this renewal occurs faster, and bone mass increases. Peak bone mass is usually attained by the age of 30. How much bone mass an individual has acquired during their youth greatly impacts osteoporosis. Genetic and ethnic factors also play a major role.

What are the Risk Factors of Osteoporosis?

Some common osteoporosis risk factors include:

1. Women are more likely to get osteoporosis, especially those in the post-menopause phase
2. Individuals over the age of 50
3. Individuals with a family history of osteoporosis
4. Individuals who are naturally thin or have a frame (this is because thinner individuals typically have less bone mass, so any losses are more likely to cause osteoporosis)
5. Smoking or using tobacco
6. Conditions that affect the thyroid glands and hormones, such as diabetes or thyroid disease
7. Gastrointestinal illnesses, like celiac disease
8. Autoimmune disorders
9. Blood disorders or blood cancers
10. Certain medications (like diuretics, corticosteroids, and seizure medications)
11. Some surgeries (like bariatric surgery)
12. Regular or excessive alcohol consumption
13. Deficiencies in vitamin D and calcium
14. Poor diet or exercise habits

What Are The Symptoms of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, some common osteoporosis symptoms include:

1. Back pain (sometimes caused by fractures or collapsed bones in the spine)
2. A hunched or stooped posture (often caused by spine malformations)
3. Gradual loss of height over time
4. Easily fractured or broken bones
5. Receding gums
6. Weakened grip strength, particularly in postmenopausal women
7. Brittle and weak fingernails that break easily

How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed and Treated? 

If an individual is presenting with osteoporosis symptoms, healthcare professionals may use a number of different tests to diagnose the condition. The most common way to diagnose osteoporosis is using a bone density test. These imaging tests use low levels of X-rays to measure the strength of the bones. Bone mineral density (BMD) tests also determine how much calcium and other minerals are present in them.

Healthcare professionals recommend regular checkups for bone density, especially in individuals over the age of 50, those with osteopenia, and postmenopausal women. This can help to diagnose osteoporosis before any serious fractures occur.

If someone is experiencing symptoms of osteoporosis, consulting a medical professional for further testing and diagnosis is essential. Regular checkups are also important, especially for individuals who have gone through early menopause, taken corticosteroids for an extended period, or have a family history of hip fractures and osteoporosis.

For quick and accurate osteoporosis panel tests, visit the Dr Lal PathLabs website today.

FAQs

1. What are some early warning signs of osteoporosis?

The early stages of osteoporosis do not always display noticeable symptoms. However, some signs to look out for include recurring or chronic back pain, loss in height, rounded shoulders, or a hunched posture.

2. Can you recover from osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is not curable. However, there are certain medications, lifestyle changes, and treatments patients can take to slow down or rebuild bone loss.

3. How much does a bone density test cost?

A bone density test cost can vary based on the facility and location. It is best to inquire directly with the healthcare provider or diagnostic center to get an accurate price. Each facility may have different rates depending on the equipment and services they offer.