Osteoporosis is a condition of the bones in which the density of the bones is decreased. The bones become weak due to decreased density which ultimately results in broken bones. The condition is likely to appear in the old age, but young adults can also acquire it. Osteoporosis can occur due to a wide range of other diseases such as conditions of digestive system, hormonal changes and mental illness. It is a silent but painful condition and might require a visit to one of the top orthopedic surgeons in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.
The diagnosis is often made after a fracture has already occurred as there are no other early symptoms. People with osteoporosis require extra care as in severe cases mere sneezing can bring about a fracture. To cope with osteoporosis, it is necessary that proper treatment is provided, and precautions are taken. In the paragraphs to follow, we explain the symptoms of osteoporosis and how they can be dealt with effectively.
Symptoms of osteoporosis:
As mentioned earlier there is no way of diagnosing osteoporosis before the damage has been done. Once the bones have already been weakened and a fracture occurs for no obvious reason only then there is a chance that it can be diagnosed. Apart from fracture some of the common symptoms are as follows
- A decrease in height in adult life is a sign of osteoporosis
- An abrupt weight loss
- Aching bones overall along with extreme back pain
- A drooping posture
What causes osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is when bones lose their density and become hollow. In old age the occurrence of this condition is almost natural as bone density develops only until a certain age. So, if the bone density is not developed in youth then old age can be very painful. Some autoimmune disorders such as Lupus and AIDS are also known to decrease bone density thus increasing the chances of developing osteoporosis. Bone cancer can also result in osteoporosis. Along with age, gender and race can make certain people vulnerable to this condition. Women and Asians are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men and Africans.
Coping Strategies for Osteoporosis:
Medicine: Not all patients are prescribed medicine and a prescription is only necessary when the patient is at high risk of experiencing a fracture in the future. Most of the time the medication is from the bisphosphonate group.
Hormone therapy: Women are vulnerable to osteoporosis especially after menopause. Hormone therapy using estrogen can, not only help with the symptoms of osteoporosis, it can also reduce the risk of developing it altogether especially if the therapy is started right after menopause. Consult one of the top orthopedic surgeons in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad for further guidance.
Precautions: Some changes in lifestyle can help with better management of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is the condition where the bone density starts to decrease, a logical approach would be to avoid anything that can cause bone loss. Smoking and alcohol have been known to decrease bone density thus a patient suffering from osteoporosis needs to avoid them altogether. Other precautions include wearing flat shoes and walking slowly so that fractures can be avoided.
If you are experiencing symptoms of osteoporosis, you should visit an endocrinologist at your earliest. You can visit our website oladoc to read up on osteoporosis and look for top orthopedic surgeons in Karachi ,Lahore, and Islamabad. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 to get directed to the specialists that are suitable for your specific concerns.
