What is Osteoporosis? - WebMD
## What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle. It occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak and may break from a fall or, in severe cases, from simply coughing or sneezing.
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease in the United States, affecting an estimated 10 million people. It is more common in women than in men and is most likely to occur in people over the age of 50.
Risk Factors for Osteoporosis
There are a number of risk factors for osteoporosis, including:
* Age: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age.
* Sex: Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men.
* Race: White people and Asian people are more likely to develop osteoporosis than Black people and Hispanic people.
* Family history: A family history of osteoporosis increases the risk of developing the disease.
* Menopause: Women who have gone through menopause are at an increased risk for osteoporosis.
* Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome, diabetes, and thyroid problems, can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
* Certain medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids and certain cancer treatments, can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
* Diet: A diet low in calcium and vitamin D can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
* Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, people may experience:
* Back pain
* Bone fractures
* Height loss
* Kyphosis (a humpback)
* Tooth loss
Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density test. This test measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in the bones. A bone density test can be done on the hip, spine, or forearm.
Treatment for Osteoporosis
There are a number of treatments for osteoporosis, including:
* Calcium and vitamin D supplements: Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health. People with osteoporosis should take supplements of these nutrients if they are not getting enough of them from their diet.
* Bisphosphonates: Bisphosphonates are a type of medication that helps to slow down bone loss. They are the most common type of medication used to treat osteoporosis.
* Other medications: Other medications that may be used to treat osteoporosis include teriparatide, strontium ranelate, and raloxifene.
* Lifestyle changes: People with osteoporosis can also help to improve their bone health by making healthy lifestyle changes, such as:
* Exercising regularly
* Eating a healthy diet
* Quitting smoking
* Reducing alcohol intake
Prevention of Osteoporosis
There are a number of things that people can do to help prevent osteoporosis, including:
* Getting enough calcium and vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health. People should get the recommended amount of these nutrients from their diet or through supplements.
* Exercising regularly: Exercise helps to build strong bones. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, running, and dancing, are especially beneficial for bone health.
* Eating a healthy diet: A healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to maintain bone health.
* Quitting smoking: Smoking can damage bones.
* Reducing alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with calcium absorption and lead to bone loss.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent osteoporosis and maintain healthy bones throughout your life.