Osteoporosis is a relatively common condition among elderly people. It causes a reduction in bone mass throughout the body and is characterized by large holes or spaces in the bone tissue. Here is some of the information about osteoporosis and how it is treated:

How Can You Tell if You Have Osteoporosis?

People with osteoporosis may not realize that they have the disease until certain symptoms, such as the following present:

• Curvature of the upper back
• Reduction in height
• A bone fracture
• Back pain

Conditions That Increase Your Risk of Osteoporosis

There are numerous conditions that can increase your likelihood of developing osteoporosis. Here are some of them:

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Breast Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Leukemia
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Stroke
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Eating Disorders
• HIV
• Liver Disease
• Sickle Cell Disease
• Kidney Disease

Additionally, certain types of weight loss procedures, such as a gastric bypass, may also increase your chance of developing osteoporosis. Even certain medications that you take, such as steroids, can cause a loss of bone tissue.

Effects of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis can change your posture, making you appear frail. However, it can also affect your body in other ways:

• Spine fractures. The vertebrae can fracture as the bones lose strength. These breaks are often caused by the compression of the spine.
• Wrist fractures. A wrist fracture may result from the weakening of the bones due to osteoporosis. A break in a wrist bone is usually incurred when the osteoporosis sufferer falls and extends their arm in an attempt to reduce the impact.
• Hip Fractures. Hip fractures are usually associated with a traumatic event, such as a fall. Treatment of a hip fracture may require surgery.
• Tooth loss. Osteoporosis can cause the bones of the jaw to become less dense. As a result, the roots of the teeth may not be held securely in the mouth. Affected teeth may eventually loosen or even fall out.

Osteoporosis Treatment

Here are few treatment options for people with osteoporosis:

• Medication. Some medicines can increase bone mass and strength.
• Hormone replacement therapy. Since osteoporosis is more likely in menopausal women, replacing hormones, such as estrogen, may reduce bone loss.
• Diet. Eating a diet that is rich in calcium may help preserve bone tissue. In addition, some foods, such as soy products, contain plant-based estrogen.
• Exercise. Weight-bearing exercises can help strengthen the bones.

If you believe that you have osteoporosis, schedule an appointment with a physician in your local area. Contact a medical center like Sarasota Arthritis Center for more information and assistance.