Osteoporosis is an ailment that gradually weakens bones ,making them more prone to fractures .Although it occur in both the sex but it is common in women, especially after menopause .This is because of the hormonal change that occur after the menopause weakens bone ,thereby causing Osteoporosis . This increase the risk of fractures, especially of the hip, spine and forearms. In fact ,over 40% of women who have undergone Menopause are at the risk of developing Osteoporosis. Fortunately, there are some simple steps that you can take to lower the risk of Osteoporosis. Let us first learn about the causes of it.
Causes of Osteoporosis :
There exists a natural cycle in our bodies which causes continuous degeneration of old bone cell with a simultaneous building of new ones. These processes are usually in balance ,so that the amount of bone loss is about equal to the amount that is replaced .
Osteoporosis is caused when there is an imbalance due to which the degeneration out paces the rebuilding.
Who is most susceptible to Osteoporosis ?
Menopause is the single most important cause of Osteoporosis , but you are also at risk if you :
- Have a family history of Osteoporosis.
- Had menopause before you were 45 years old.
- Are thin or small in stature.
- Have used steroids which is commonly used to treat asthma and arthritis.
- Have used high dose of thyroid hormones .
- Smoke
- Drink excessive alcohol.
- Do not exercise enough.
- Have calcium deficiency.
How is Menopause related to Osteoporosis ?
In women the balance between bone build up and bone loss is disturbed during Menopause due to the hormonal changes occurring at this time. Where you are younger, your body produces hormones like estrogen to prepare you for pregnancy .During menopause however the level of estrogen produced in your body begins to drop . This drop leads to a faster breakdown of bone tissue and the tissue being replaced can not keep pace with it. In fact during the first five years after Menopause ,some women may lose as much as 25% of their bone density. In many women this bone loss is severe enough to make bones weak and fragile . This cause Osteoporosis .
A surgical Menopause ,which occurs in women who have undergone a surgical removal of Ovaries ,leads to similar hormonal changes and thereby increase risk of Osteoporosis .
Symptoms of Osteoporosis :
What are the symptoms of Osteoporosis ?
The early stages of Osteoporosis are relatively painless and symptoms free .In fact , many women who have undergone menopause do not even realise it when this ailment begins to set in.
But once the symptoms of Osteoporosis begin to surface ,these could include .
- Pain in the back .
- Loss in height.
- A curving spine .
- A broken bone or a history of broken bones.
Detection Of Osteoporosis :
An X-ray for some other medical reason could reveal Osteoporosis , although X-rays only reveal signs of Osteoporosis when bone loss is quite advanced.
Osteoporosis can be detected at an early stage with a routine “Bone Density Test “also called Bone Denitometry.
This may be recommended as a routine test after Menopause.
You must visit your doctor for a regular check up if you :
- Are above 40 years of age
- Have undergone menopause
- Have back pain ,height loss or a bone that fracture easily.
