Osteoporosis

Definition:

   Osteoporosis is an related metabolic disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. Bone      de-mineralize, losing calcium and phosphorus, leading to increase in bone fragility and subsequent fractures.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Genetic predisposition
• Lack of exercise
• Lack of calcium and vitamin D in diet
• Cigarette smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• History of rheumatoid arthritis
• Low body weight
• Post menopause women
• Prolonged use of steroids, anti- thyroid medicines etc

Signs and symptoms:

     In early stage there would not be any symptoms. In later stages when the bone has weakened the patient may have:

• Back pain caused by fracture or collapsed vertebrae
• Loss of height over time
• A stooped posture
• A bone fracture that occurs much more easily than expected 

Types: 

Primary  Osteoporosis:

1. Occurs in postmenopausal women
2. Risk factors include decreased calcium intake, deficient estrogen, and limited exercise

Secondary Osteoporosis:

• Osteoporosis occuring as a result of prolonged use of steroid therapy, anti-thyroid therapy and anti-convulsants
• Associated with immobility, alcoholism, malnutrition, or malabsorption.

Diagnosis:

1. X-rays
2. Bone mineral density test

 Management:

1. Lifestyle changes: Quitting cigarette smoking and alcohol intake - Regular exercise and consuming a balanced diet with adequate calcium and Vitamin D.
2. Medication: Alendronate and Risedronate - Bisphosphonates, Raloxifene and Calcitonin- Anti- resorptive medicines, Tenparatide- increase bone formation, Calcium supplements and Vitamin D
3. Hormone therapy for postmenopausal women