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 older adults. However, it can also occur in younger people.

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

There are several 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: Having a family history of osteoporosis increases your risk of developing the disease.

* 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, can cause osteoporosis.

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

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

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

* Back pain

* Bone fractures

* Height loss

* Kyphosis (a humpback)

* Tooth loss

Diagnosis of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is diagnosed using a bone density test. This test measures the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones. A bone density test can be done on your hip, spine, or forearm.

Treatment for Osteoporosis

There are several treatments for osteoporosis, including:

* Calcium and vitamin D supplements

* Medications to slow bone loss or help build new bone

* Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and getting regular exercise

Preventing Osteoporosis

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

* Get enough calcium and vitamin D.

* Exercise regularly.

* Quit smoking.

* Reduce alcohol intake.

* Maintain a healthy weight.

If you have any of the risk factors for osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about how you can prevent the disease.