Weak Bones
The bones become fragile and more vulnerable to breaking when osteoporosis develops. Sometimes a person may not know the bone disease has started, and if no treatment is sought for prevention, damage will occur. The bones are at risk of fracture, especially the hips, spine and wrists. But any bone can be affected. Hip fractures often require hospitalization and sometimes major surgery. Even after being treated for the fracture, the person may have to use a cane or walker to walk. It can turn into a prolonged or permanent disability, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF). Fractures in the spinal area can lead to severe pain and deformity as well as loss of height. The disease comes about because of low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. The bones become so fragile that even a minor fall or move can cause a bone to break. People have suffered fractures from something as simple as sneezing.
Warning Signs
People who are in the beginning stages of osteoporosis may not feel their bones getting weaker, but signs may include sloping shoulders, a curve in the back or hunched posture, back pain, protruding abdomen and height loss, according to the National Women's Health Information Center. Osteoporosis mainly affects older people, but it can strike at any age. It is estimated that 80 percent of people with the disease are women, the NOF says. This may be because women lose up to 20 percent of bone mass a few years following menopause. Other risk factors in developing osteoporosis include a family history of the disease, being small or thin in size or having a history of broken bones. Low calcium and vitamin D intake may be factors along with consuming excessive amounts of protein, sodium and caffeine. An inactive lifestyle, smoking and alcohol abuse also increase the risk of osteoporosis. Caucasians, Asians and Hispanics are at more risk than African Americans, who still have some risk.
Bone Density
Bone mineral density tests can be taken to measure bone mass throughout various areas of the body. It is important for people at risk to undergo these tests, which can detect low density before a fracture happens. The tests will determine overall bone health and risk of fractures, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease. It is also a good idea for people at risk to get the tests once a year or on a regular basis to see in there are any changes in bone density. A doctor can design a treatment plan if it looks as if a person will experience bone fractures in the future. There is no cure for osteoporosis, but it can be treated with medication. People with low bone density or at risk for osteoporosis may be advised to include plenty of calcium and vitamin D in the diet, to exercise regularly and to avoid smoking and excessive drinking of alcohol.
