What is osteoporosis?
Your bone is living tissue that’s under constant construction. Your body continuously removes old bone cells and replaces them with new cells to maintain strength and health.
Osteoporosis develops when the rate of bone loss exceeds the rate of new bone growth. Osteoporosis causes thin, brittle bones that are more susceptible to fractures.
There are many factors that affect bone health and your risk of developing osteoporosis, including:
- Age
- Body size
- Ethnicity
- Family history
- Calcium and vitamin D intake
- Lifestyle habits (smoking, excessive alcohol use)
- Medication
A decrease in sex hormone levels, including low testosterone in men and low estrogen in women, also increases the rate of bone loss and your risk of osteoporosis.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
You may not experience any symptoms during the early stages of osteoporosis. However, as bone loss progresses you may develop:
- Back pain from vertebral compression fractures
- Height loss
- Poor posture from stooped shoulders
You may also break a bone when engaged in normal daily activities, such as walking down the stairs or picking up your bag.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
A bone density test diagnoses osteoporosis. During the test, a special X-ray measures the mineral content of your bones. It typically measures the bone density in your hips, spine, and forearm.
A low bone mineral content indicates low bone density. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends you undergo a bone density scan if you’re a:
- Female 65 or older
- Male 75 or older
- Postmenopausal woman with risk factors (small bones, smoker)
- Male between 50-65 with risk factors
You should also schedule a bone density test to confirm or rule out osteoporosis if you broke a bone after age 50.
How is osteoporosis treated?
The experts at Abington Endocrinology are certified by related professional organizations and have completed academic level research in osteoporosis. Dr. Weiss creates personalized treatment plans using the most up-to-date therapies.
The specifics of your osteoporosis treatment plan may depend on how likely you are to break a bone over the next 10 years. If your risk is low, Dr. Weiss may suggest lifestyle changes to improve bone health and reduce your risk of bone fractures, such as:
- Adding calcium and vitamin D supplements
- Engaging in weight-bearing exercise
- Minimizing your risk of falls
- Wearing low-heeled shoes
If you’re at risk of breaking a bone in the next 10 years, Dr. Weiss prescribes medication that improves bone growth and health.
He schedules regular follow-up appointments to adjust your treatment plans as needed, and may request additional bone density scans.
To learn more about your osteoporosis treatment options, call Abington Endocrinology or book an appointment online today.
