Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mineral density and deterioration of bone tissue. This leads to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine and wrist.
Some key facts about osteoporosis:

• It is often called a "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms


• It affects both men and women, but women are at higher risk due to menopause


• Building strong and healthy bones during childhood and adolescence can help prevent osteoporosis later in life

What causes osteoporosis?

There are several risk factors that can contribute to the development of osteoporosis:

• Aging - Bone density peaks around age 30 and begins to decline after that


• Hormone levels - Decreased estrogen levels during menopause for women, and lower testosterone levels in men, increases bone loss


• Genetics - A family history of osteoporosis puts you at higher risk


• Diet - Low calcium and vitamin D intake can cause bone loss


• Lifestyle factors - Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and lack of exercise

The most common symptoms of osteoporosis are fractures. Fractures often occur in the:

• Wrist - When trying to break a fall


• Spine - Causing loss of height and back pain


• Hip - Usually requiring hospitalization and surgery

While there is no cure for osteoporosis, several treatment options can help slow or prevent bone loss including:

• Weight-bearing exercise - Walking, dancing, tennis etc


• Calcium and vitamin D supplements


• Medications - Bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, etc


• Healthy lifestyle - No smoking, limited alcohol, balanced diet

If you're concerned about your bone health, make an appointment to get a bone mineral density test. This simple and painless scan can detect osteoporosis early, before fractures occur.

The experts at Prime Hormone Solutions also provide specialized care for osteoporosis. Their comprehensive hormone testing can identify hormonal imbalances contributing to bone loss. Based on test results, their physicians create customized treatment plans involving bioidentical hormone therapy, nutrition plans, and fitness guidance to improve bone density. Contact them today to learn more!