What is Osteoporosis?

Effective Ways to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and fragile, making them more likely to break. It usually develops over many years and often goes unnoticed until a bone fracture happens. Osteoporosis is commonly found in older people and is particularly common among postmenopausal women. Sometimes accidents cause fractures in the hips, spine or wrists.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of osteoporosis, its symptoms, causes, and more. Continue reading to learn how to effectively manage osteoporosis.

What are the Types of Osteoporosis?

Doctors classify osteoporosis into two main types: primary and secondary.

Primary Osteoporosis

This is the most common type and is related to aging and hormonal changes. Primary osteoporosis can be Type I and Type II.

• Type I Primary Osteoporosis (Postmenopausal): This type mostly affects women after menopause due to a drop in estrogen levels. It usually develops between the ages of 50 and 70. Men can also suffer from it due to low testosterone. It leads to a faster breakdown of the soft, inner part of bones (trabecular bone), making areas like the spine and wrists more likely to fracture.

Symptoms of Primary Osteoporosis

• Often no symptoms until a fracture occurs
• Loss of height
• Weak grip strength
• Changes in posture (like a stooped back)
• Back pain, often from small spinal fractures

• Type II Primary Osteoporosis (Senile) : This type usually appears after age 70 and affects both the outer and inner parts of the bone. It's often caused by long-term calcium and vitamin D deficiencies. Women are more likely to get it than men. It leads to slower bone rebuilding and often results in hip fractures.

What are the Most Common Causes of Primary Osteoporosis?

Primary osteoporosis usually happens as people get older, but some factors make it more likely:

• Menopause: Hormone changes after menopause lower bone protection in women
• Aging: Bones naturally lose strength over time
• Ethnic background: People of Asian or European descent have a higher risk
• Smoking: Tobacco weakens bones
• Poor nutrition: Not getting enough calcium, vitamin D, or protein increases risk
• Lack of exercise: Inactivity weakens bones and raises the chance of falling
• Bone fracture after age 50: A sign that bones may already be weak

How is Primary Osteoporosis Diagnosed?

If a doctor suspects osteoporosis, they may recommend a bone mineral density (BMD) test. The most common and accurate test is the DXA scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry). This scan measures the strength of bones, especially in the spine and hips, which are areas most likely to break.

What is Secondary Osteoporosis?

This type occurs as a result of other health conditions or medications. It happens when something interferes with the body’s ability to rebuild bone properly. It is often called a "silent" disease because it usually shows no symptoms until a fracture happens.

Symptoms of Secondary Osteoporosis

• Fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine
• Spinal deformities, such as kyphosis
• Stooped or hunched posture.

What are the Stages of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis progresses through four stages:

1. Stage 1 : At this early stage, bone breakdown and formation are balanced. Bone density is still normal, and there are no symptoms.
2. Stage 2 (Osteopenia) : Bones start to lose density faster than they are being replaced. This stage is called osteopenia. There are usually no symptoms, and bones are still fairly strong.
3. Stage 3 (Diagnosed Osteoporosis) : Bone loss becomes more serious, and bones become more fragile. A person may break a bone more easily, even from minor falls or bumps.
4. Stage 4 (Severe Osteoporosis) : This is the most advanced stage. Bones are very weak and brittle, making fractures much more likely. Physical changes like shorter height and a hunched back may occur, along with chronic back pain from spinal fractures.

What is the T-score for Osteoporosis?

A T-score is a result of a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test, used to assess bone health. The lower the score, the weaker your bones.

T-score categories:

• Normal bone density: T-score of -1.0 or above
• Osteopenia (low bone mass): T-score between -1.0 and -2.4
• Osteoporosis: T-score of -2.5 or lower.

Which Organ is Most Affected by Osteoporosis?

The bones are the main part of the body affected by osteoporosis. Although bones are not organs like the heart or liver, they are living tissues that are essential to body structure and function. The spine, hips, and wrists are commonly affected areas.

Is Yoga Good for Osteoporosis?

Yes, gentle yoga can help improve balance, flexibility, and posture, which may reduce the risk of falls and fractures. However, certain poses that put stress on the spine or hips should be avoided. Always consult with your doctor before starting a yoga routine.

How to Get 100% Calcium Daily?

Adults typically need about 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium daily. To meet daily calcium needs:

• Eat dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
• Include leafy greens like spinach and kale
• Eat fish with bones, like sardines
• Consider calcium-fortified foods (e.g., orange juice, cereals)
• Take calcium supplements if needed, but only after talking to a doctor

What is the Best Drink for Bone Density?

Milk is one of the best drinks for bone health because it’s rich in calcium and vitamin D. Other good options include:

• Fortified plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat).
• Orange juice with added calcium.
• Bone broth.
• Smoothies with leafy greens and yogurt.

What is the Treatment for Osteoporosis?

First-line treatment for osteoporosis typically includes bisphosphonates, which are the most commonly prescribed medications to reduce fracture risk in both men and women.

If bisphosphonates are ineffective or cause side effects, doctors may consider second-line treatments, such as:

• Hormone therapy (especially for postmenopausal women)
• Parathyroid hormone-related medications (e.g., teriparatide) – stimulates new bone growth
• Denosumab – an injectable medication that slows down bone loss
• Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) – help maintain bone density and are mainly used in women.

What are the Common Endocrine Disorders Linked to Osteoporosis?

Endocrine disorders affect the glands that produce hormones and are a leading cause of secondary osteoporosis. These hormonal disorders can disrupt bone remodeling and lead to bone loss.

Most common endocrine conditions linked to osteoporosis include:

• Diabetes mellitus
• Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands)
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)

Osteoporosis is a silent yet serious condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures, especially as we age. Early diagnosis, proper treatment, and lifestyle changes play a vital role in maintaining bone health.

Proper treatment for osteoporosis allows individuals to live full, healthy lives. At Star Health, we have health insurance plans that assist people with managing chronic problems, including osteoporosis.

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