Osteoporosis (Bone Thinning)
Early Diagnosis is Important for Your Bone Health!
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by weakening and fragility of bones. The decrease in bone mass and structure is the main symptom of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is usually a disease that progresses silently and is usually not noticed until a fracture occurs because it does not show any obvious symptoms. Ento Surgical Medical Center helps you with its expert team in the early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become thinner and more fragile than normal. Bones, like other organs of the body, are alive and constantly renewed. However, in osteoporosis, this renewal process is disrupted, bones are lost, and this leads to weakening of the bones. In this case, bones can break more easily, and even fractures can occur during a simple fall or movement.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can develop for several different reasons:
- Aging: Changes in bone structure accelerate as we age. In women, especially after menopause, the decrease in estrogen increases the risk of osteoporosis.
- Genetic Factors: The risk is higher in people with a family history of osteoporosis.
- Hormone Irregularities: Hormonal imbalances such as low estrogen levels, thyroid disorders, and testosterone deficiency can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Inadequate Nutrition: Low calcium and vitamin D levels negatively affect bone health.
- Lack of Physical Activity: An active lifestyle helps strengthen bones. Insufficient exercise can weaken bone health.
- Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect bone health.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis usually has no symptoms, but over time, bone density loss and fractures can occur. The most common symptoms are:
- Back pain
- Loss of height
- As the condition progresses, fractures and deformities (for example, stooping)
- Bone fractures, even with minor trauma
- Difficulty in movement
Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteoporosis
Diagnosis:
Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a test that measures bone density, DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry). This test evaluates your bone density and determines your risk of osteoporosis.
Treatment:
Treatment for osteoporosis includes lifestyle changes and medication. Treatment usually includes:
- Diet and Nutrition: Getting enough calcium and vitamin D supports bone health.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise can increase bone density and strengthen muscles.
- Medications: Medications used to treat osteoporosis aim to strengthen bone structure. These include bisphosphonates, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone therapy, and hormone replacement therapy.
- Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: Calcium and vitamin D supplements may be recommended to improve bone health.
- Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may help treat osteoporosis.
1. What happens if osteoporosis is not treated?
If osteoporosis is not treated, bones become weaker and the risk of fractures increases. These fractures can lead to serious health problems, sometimes significantly reducing quality of life. The most serious cases are major fractures such as hip fractures or spinal fractures.
2. What should be done to protect against osteoporosis?
To protect against osteoporosis, it is important to ensure that you consume enough calcium and vitamin D with a balanced diet. Regular exercise, especially resistance exercises and weight-bearing activities, can strengthen bones. Also, not smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
