|
What
is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a thinning of the bones. As bones become thinner
they become more fragile and can break easily.
How common is osteoporosis?
It is
most common in older women. In the US, it affects nearly 10 million people. More
than 2 million men have osteoporosis. An additional 18 million people have low bone
density. This puts them at risk for additional bone loss and bone fractures.
How
do I know if I have osteoporosis?
Often, you may not know until you fracture a bone.
The first sign that you may have osteoporosis may be a change in your height.
How
is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Information about your bone health is important. This
includes information about:
- a family history of osteoporosis
- your
medication history
- smoking
- drinking alcohol
- previous fractures
- changes
in posture or height
Women will be asked about their menopausal status. A bone
density test called a DEXA scan tells us about bone health. It is used for both
screening and diagnosis. Women 65 and older should be screened for osteoporosis.
Screening for women at a higher risk should start at age 60.
Can osteoporosis be
prevented?
The best prevention for osteoporosis is to build strong bones during
your lifetime. Ways to do this include:
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Get
enough calcium from your diet or calcium supplements
- Get enough Vitamin
D from sunlight or foods like milk.
- Be active with weight-bearing activities,
such as walking and dancing helps to slow bone loss
- Stop smoking
- Limit
the amount of alcohol you drink
Are there treatments for osteoporosis?
The main
goal of treatment is to prevent a fracture. Eating a balanced and healthy diet
that includes enough calcium and vitamin D will help. Participating in weight bearing
activities will also help. Your provider may prescribe medications to slow bone
loss and increase bone strength. Making simple changes in your home can help prevent
a fall, which may result in a fracture.
- Rooms and hallways should be
free of clutter
- Keep
rooms and hallways well lit
- Use night lights
- Wear rubber-soled
shoes for traction
- Remove or anchor area rugs
- Consider installing “grab” bars
in the bathroom
Talk with your Health Care Team if you have specific questions
or concerns.
Return to the main Arthritis page
|
