1. Manage Onset at Menopause
Osteoporosis can be developed due to genetic tendency, estrogen loss in menopause, aging and as a complication of other medical conditions. Menopause is a leading factor, as women experience an abrupt drop in estrogen levels, and estrogen (or testosterone, in men) helps to maintain calcium in your bones. Medication approaches to managing osteoporosis will depend on the cause of your bone degradation and your overall health issues.
Get a bone density scan following menopause to see whether you need osteoporosis treatment. Estrogen replacement is no longer preferred, but your doctor may suggest new drugs that preserve bone density, such as bisphosphonates or other natural or synthetic hormones. Plant estrogen, such as that found in soy products, may be an acceptable supplement or alternative.
2. Manage Onset Due to Aging
Men and post-menopausal women whose osteoporosis Z-scores place them at high risk for fractures may need ongoing medication. Many osteoporosis drugs on the market today mimic estrogen's ability to preserve calcium in bone. Others inhibit abnormal cells that cause bone tissue to degrade and die. Patients who are very thin or of small, delicate frames fall into the high-risk category. So do smokers, the malnourished and breast cancer patients.
Be sure to discuss your full medical history with your doctor in order to get the correct prescription. If you are at lower risk, a short course of therapy may be suggested along with dietary and lifestyle changes.
3. In Connection With Other Causes
Underlying health issues may be causing your body to lose calcium or be unable to absorb it properly. Getting diagnosis and treatment for anorexia, bulimia, hypertension or thyroid conditions can mitigate osteoporosis progression. Take any medications prescribed by your doctor for anxiety, high blood pressure or other disorders to restore your body's ability to use calcium and stave off bone loss.
