How to Diagnosis Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a gradual weakening of the bone, due to low mineral density, develops slowly. If diagnosed early, medical intervention can slow or prevent the progression of the disease. Unfortunately, osteoporosis is a silent disease and a person may not be aware they have a problem until they suffer a broken bone. Take steps to determine your risk of developing osteoporosis.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn to recognize the risk factors associated with osteoporosis. The majority of victims are Caucasian, female and have a tall or thin body shape. In addition, lifestyle choices increase your risk. Smoking, drinking alcohol, a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition contribute to the risk of developing the disease.

• 2

  Share your medical history with your doctor in diagnosing your risk of osteoporosis. If you’ve undergone chemotherapy or you’ve suffered a stroke, your risk increases. Hormonal imbalances may also contribute to a woman’s risk factor.

• 3

  Undergo a bone mineral density test if you are a female over the age of 60 or if your doctor recommends one and you are post-menopausal. This test measures the amount of minerals, such as calcium, in your bones with a computerized X-ray machine.

• 4

  Consult your physician if you’ve suffered a fracture and are post-menopausal. Bones can break at any age, but osteoporosis makes a break more likely to occur with only slight trauma.

• 5

  Watch for signs that could indicate the onset of osteoporosis. If you notice one pant leg seems longer than the other or one side of your skirt hem hanging down, you may be experiencing a weakening and bending of the spine. If others notice you’re slumping over more often, osteoporosis may be the culprit.