Osteoporosis

Overview

Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become weak and brittle where a slightest fall or stress can lead to a fracture. Older women who are menopause are at the highest risk for this condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra or without any obvious injury , A gradual loss of height and an accompanying stooped posture , A bone that breaks much more easily than expected

Risk Factors

Sex , Age , Race , Family history , Body frame size , Lowered sex hormones , Thyroid problems , Low calcium intake , Eating disorders , Gastrointestinal surgery , Long term steroid uses , Seizure , Cancer , Inflammatory bowel disease , Kidney or liver disease , Celiac disease , Lupus , Multiple myeloma , Rheumatoid arthritis , Excessive alcohol consumption

Investigation Techniques

Bone Mineral Density, Ultra sound scan, Dual Energy X-ray Absorptometry (DXA or DEXA) , Osteoporosis Self assessment Tool for Asians (FRAX - Fracture Risk Assessment Tool)

Treatment and Prevention

Increase intake of Calcium 1 gm daily, Vit D3 800 IU daily, Weight- bearing and Muscle Strengthening Exercise, Prevention of falls, Decrease body weight, Decrease intake of Alcohol, Avoid Caffeine, Avoid Smoking, Bisphosphonates, Raloxifene, Strontium ranelate, Denosumab, Teriparatide

Psychological Issues

Depression , Stress , Anxiety