Osteoporosis is a problem that affects your bones. Normally, bones have little spaces inside them. But with osteoporosis, these spaces get bigger, and your bones become less dense and strong. It can occur to people of different age groups. However, it is more common in adults, especially women. If you have osteoporosis, you are more likely to get fractures or breaks in your bones, even when you are doing everyday things like walking or just standing. The bones that are most often affected are the spine, hips, wrists, and ribs.
Who Is Prone to Osteoporosis?
Both men and women can have osteoporosis. However, older women are more likely to be at a higher risk. There are about 200 million people worldwide who have osteoporosis.When it comes to getting this disease, women have four times higher chances of developing it compared to men. Every year, this condition causes around two million bone fractures, and these numbers keep increasing.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a health problem where your bones become weak and fragile, which means they can easily break. Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Some of them are as follows:
- Age - It is one of the primary causes of osteoporosis. As we grow older, our bodies naturally lose bone density, making our bones weaker. This process tends to accelerate in women after menopause due to the decline in oestrogen levels, which plays a crucial role in maintaining bone strength.
- Hormonal imbalances - Hormonal imbalances can also contribute to osteoporosis. Low levels of sex hormones, such as oestrogen in women and testosterone in men, can lead to bone loss. Certain medical conditions like hypogonadism or hyperthyroidism can disrupt hormone levels and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Lifestyle - Lifestyle choices can play a significant role as well. Lack of physical activity or sedentary habits can weaken bones over time. Additionally, poor nutrition, especially low calcium and vitamin D intake, can impair bone health. Excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and long-term use of certain medications like corticosteroids can also increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- Genetics - Family history and genetics also influence the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. If your parents or close relatives have a history of the condition, you may be at a higher risk.
Understanding the causes of osteoporosis is crucial for prevention and early detection. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in weight-bearing exercises, ensuring proper nutrition, and seeking medical advice from Dr Rajesh Malhotra can help reduce the risk and manage this condition effectively.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Here are common symptoms associated with osteoporosis:
- Back pain
- Loss of height
- Stooped posture
- Fractures
- Brittle nails
- Tooth loss
- Bone pain
- Limited mobility
What Options are for Osteoporosis Treatment in Delhi?
Osteoporosis treatment aims to slow down bone loss, strengthen existing bone, and reduce the risk of fractures. Usually, Dr Rajesh Malhotra, a renowned orthopaedic surgeon, follows a systematic approach to treat his patients. According to him, here are some common options for osteoporosis treatment in Delhi:
- Medications - Several different types of medications are available for treating osteoporosis. These osteoporosis medication options include bisphosphonates, which help reduce bone loss and decrease the risk of fractures. Other medications, such as selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and denosumab, may also be prescribed to increase bone density and reduce fracture risk.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements - Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake are essential for maintaining bone health. If dietary sources are insufficient, supplements may be recommended to ensure the body has the necessary nutrients for bone strength.
- Lifestyle modifications - Certain lifestyle changes can contribute to managing osteoporosis. Regular weight-bearing exercises like walking or strength training help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is also important, as they can negatively affect bone health.
- Fall prevention - Reducing the risk of falls is crucial for individuals with osteoporosis. Modifying the home environment to minimise tripping hazards, wearing appropriate footwear, and using assistive devices if necessary can help prevent falls and potential fractures.
- Hormone therapy - For postmenopausal women, hormone therapy (oestrogen therapy) may be considered to slow down bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. However, the decision to undergo hormone therapy should be made after discussing the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare professional.
- Regular monitoring - It is important to regularly monitor bone density through bone mineral density (BMD) tests. These tests help evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Treatment for osteoporosis is typically personalised based on an individual's specific needs, risk factors, and medical history. Dr. Rajesh Malhotra goes through every detail and determines the most appropriate treatment options for your particular situation.