Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle In such cases, the bone is so weak that even a simple movement, such as bending or coughing, can lead to a fracture. Fractures associated with osteoporosis are common in the hip, wrist, and spine
Bone is a living tissue that undergoes constant renewal Osteoporosis develops when new bone synthesis cannot replace the death of old bone tissue
Osteoporosis affects women and men of all races, but women of white or Asian descent, especially after menopause, are at the highest risk. Medicines, a healthy diet, and exercise can help prevent bone loss and strengthen bones
The bone is constantly undergoing a process of renewal - new tissue is formed, and old tissue dies In young people, the body quickly produces new bone, the old tissue is removed more slowly, so the bone mass increases Peak bone mass occurs in the early 20s As we age, bone breaks down faster than it is formed
The chance of developing osteoporosis depends on the amount of bone mass achieved in youth The higher the peak bone mass, the greater the "reserve" of bone tissue, which reduces the chance of developing osteoporosis with age.
In the early stages of osteoporosis, there are no signs or symptoms As the bones weaken, you may notice:
- Lower back pain caused by a broken or collapsed pelvis
- Height loss over time
- Bending
- A bone fracture that developed easily
When to refer
