How Osteoporosis Work

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak and fragile. It is the most common bone disease in the United States, affecting an estimated 10 million people over the age of 50.

How does osteoporosis work?

Osteoporosis occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. Bones are constantly being broken down and rebuilt. In osteoporosis, the breakdown of bone occurs more quickly than the building up of new bone. This causes bones to become weak and porous.

What causes osteoporosis?

There are many factors that can contribute to 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: If you have a family history of osteoporosis, you are more likely to develop the disease.

* Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Cushing's syndrome, diabetes, and thyroid problems, can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

* Medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and thyroid hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

* Lifestyle factors: Smoking, drinking alcohol, and not getting enough calcium and vitamin D can all increase the risk of osteoporosis.

What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis often does not cause any symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, you may experience:

* Back pain

* Bone fractures

* Height loss

* Kyphosis (a humpback)

* Tooth loss

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density test. This test measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones.

How is osteoporosis treated?

There are several treatments for osteoporosis, including:

* Calcium and vitamin D supplements

* Bisphosphonates

* Teriparatide

* Raloxifene

* Strontium ranelate

How can I prevent osteoporosis?

There are several things you can do to help prevent osteoporosis, including:

* Get regular exercise

* Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of calcium and vitamin D

* Avoid smoking

* Limit alcohol intake

* Maintain a healthy weight

* Get enough sleep

* Manage stress