Osteoporosis is a progressive disease in which bones become weak and fragile due to loss of bone mass. This is a serious condition in which bones are more susceptible to fracture. Osteoporosis-related fractures commonly affect the spine, wrist, or hip.
Osteoporosis is a progressive disease in which bones become weak and fragile due to loss of bone mass. This is a serious condition in which bones are more susceptible to fracture. Osteoporosis-related fractures commonly affect the spine, wrist, or hip.
Symptoms and Causes
Typically there are no symptoms in the initial stages. Risk factors for osteoporosis include low body weight, ageing, gender, smoking, thyroid problem, low sex hormones, lifestyle factors, sedentary lifestyle, eating disorders, excessive alcohol intake, and certain medications. Once bones have become weakened, you may suffer from the following symptoms:
- A stooped posture
- Loss of height over time
- Back pain due to fractured or collapsed vertebra
- Frequent bone fracture
Treatment
Treatment of osteoporosis includes increasing intake of vitamin D and calcium in your diet. An adequate supply of vitamin D is essential for the absorption of phosphorus and calcium. Vitamin D3 is the naturally occurring vitamin manufactured by the body on being exposed to sunlight. It is the most preferred form of vitamin D if you are taking a supplement. Inclusion of magnesium, calcium is important for the health of bones. A combination of calcium, vitamin D and magnesium helps keep the bones strong and healthy.
