Known as osteoporosis in the public as bone loss, it is the condition where bones become more brittle due to certain changes in bone tissues. Due to osteoporosis, bone mass decreases and bones become weaker. In cases of bone fractures, the possibility of osteoporosis might be overlooked, potentially delaying treatment. Therefore, patients showing symptoms of bone loss should definitely be examined by a specialist orthopedic doctor.
Symptoms of Bone Loss
- Frequent and severe pains in the back and lower back
- Curvature of the spine
- Repeated bone fractures
- Height reduction.
What Causes Bone Loss?
- Inadequate bone mass development due to poor nutrition in childhood,
- Sedentary lifestyle,
- Reduction in estrogen production during menopause
- Genetic predisposition
- Overactive thyroid gland
- Lack of blood sugar control due to diabetes
- Inadequate nutrition.
Treatment of Bone Loss
Can Osteoporosis Be Prevented?
The primary step in preventing osteoporosis is adequate nutrition during childhood. Proper intake of calcium and vitamin D contributes to healthy bones in later years. To protect against bone loss, it is also recommended to engage in regular exercise, avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine, not smoke, and maintain a balanced diet. Routine orthopedic check-ups should not be neglected for early diagnosis and treatment of bone loss.
How Is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?
The response to the question of what osteoporosis is, often highlights the disease's silent progression without symptoms for a long time, requiring careful attention in the diagnosis process. Routine screenings are recommended, especially for women over 50 and men over 65. The most commonly used method for measuring bone density is the bone mineral densitometry (DEXA). This test helps determine how dense and strong the bones are. The result is expressed with a value known as the "T score." Results between -1 and -2.5 indicate osteopenia, while values below -2.5 support a diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Following diagnosis, osteoporosis treatment methods are tailored to the individual. Factors affecting this process include the patient's age, general health condition, lifestyle, and any previous fracture history.
Why Is the Risk of Osteoporosis Higher in Women?
The prevalence of osteoporosis in women is directly related to hormonal changes. During menopause, the rapid decrease in estrogen levels increases bone breakdown and slows new bone formation. As a result, bone density decreases, and the risk of fractures increases. Women's bone structure is also thinner than men’s, which may lead to earlier onset of the disease. Additionally, irregular menstrual cycles, early menopause, and long-term use of birth control pills are factors that increase risk.
It is crucial for women to take precautions from a young age knowing these risks. Regular exercise, consumption of calcium and vitamin D, and regular orthopedic check-ups are critically important for maintaining bone health.
Osteoporosis in Men Should Not Be Overlooked
Although often perceived as a disease exclusive to women, osteoporosis in men is a serious health concern. In men, the disease typically appears in older ages and diagnoses are often delayed. There is an increased fracture risk that complicates the treatment process.
Main causes of osteoporosis in men include decreased testosterone levels, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol and tobacco use, steroid use, and chronic diseases. Diagnosis in men is usually made after a fracture, which can lead to significant declines in quality of life. Therefore, men over 70 are advised to regularly monitor their bone density.
Importance of Lifestyle in Osteoporosis
For individuals diagnosed with osteoporosis, treatment is not limited to medication use only. The adoption of an active lifestyle is essential to slow down or even halt the process of bone loss due to osteoporosis.
Regular walks, exercises without heavy lifting, yoga, and Pilates are among the recommended bone-friendly physical activities. Nutritional habits should also be reviewed. Important nutritional sources for calcium and vitamin D include dairy products, green leafy vegetables, nuts like almonds, and foods such as fish and eggs.
The high caffeine and phosphate content in carbonated drinks, which may negatively impact bone health, is why their excessive consumption should be avoided. Alcohol and tobacco use are also major harmful habits that accelerate bone loss. Osteoporosis patients should refrain from these substances and should seek professional help to control any addictions if necessary.
Osteoporosis and Nutrition: Which Foods Strengthen Bones?
Known as bone loss, osteoporosis is a disease directly related to nutrition. Essential nutrients for healthy bones primarily include calcium and vitamin D. The daily calcium requirement for an adult is approximately 1000-1200 mg. This amount can be easily met through dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin through sunlight exposure. However, in cases of inadequate sunlight exposure, vitamin D should be taken through foods such as salmon, sardines, and egg yolk, and supplements when necessary. Moreover, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin K, and zinc are other minerals that play important roles in bone metabolism. Therefore, a bone-friendly diet plan should definitely include green leafy vegetables, almonds, walnuts, legumes, and whole grains.
Osteoporosis and Fall Risk: Precautions at Home
When osteoporosis symptoms appear or a diagnosis is made, the greatest risk is bone fractures. These fractures mostly occur as a result of falls. Therefore, especially for elderly individuals, the home environment should be made safer.
- Carpets should be secured and have non-slip backing.
- Non-slip mats should be used in bathrooms and toilets, and grab bars should be installed if necessary.
- The height of beds and chairs should not be too low, making it difficult to sit down and get up.
- Lighting should be adequate; night lights should be used.
- Stair railings should be fortified and lighting increased.
By reducing fall risk through these measures, osteoporosis treatment methods can become more effective. It should be remembered that bone fractures are the most dangerous consequence of osteoporosis, which can often be reduced through simple precautions.
Medication Treatment in Osteoporosis
Among osteoporosis treatment methods, the most commonly used medications include bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), parathyroid hormone analogs, and denosumab as monoclonal antibodies. These medications aim to halt bone breakdown and support new bone formation.
Doctors decide the choice of medication based on the patient's age, bone density values, and fracture risk. In addition to these medications, vitamin D and calcium supplements are frequently prescribed. During treatment, regular check-ups monitor changes in bone density.
Social and Psychological Effects of Osteoporosis
Bone fractures can cause not only physical but also psychological traumas. Especially after hip fractures, elderly individuals may develop situations such as loss of independence and depression. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, these adverse effects can be prevented. Public awareness, encouraging elderly individuals to participate in social life, and providing psychological support is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if osteoporosis is not treated?
Untreated osteoporosis leads to a gradual weakening of the bones. This can result in fractures from minor traumas such as falls or impacts. Particularly, hip, spine, and wrist fractures can seriously reduce a patient's quality of life.
Is osteoporosis completely curable?
Osteoporosis is not a disease that can be completely cured. However, its progression can be halted, and bone fractures can be prevented with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Lifestyle changes and regular treatment increase the success of this process.
At what age does the risk of osteoporosis begin?
The risk usually increases in individuals over 50. Low calcium intake, a sedentary lifestyle, and genetic factors can contribute to the issue at younger ages.
Does osteoporosis only affect women?
No. Osteoporosis bone loss can occur in both women and men. While it is more commonly seen in women, men also face an increased risk of osteoporosis as they age.