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In Oestoporosis, crush
fractures in the spine cause deformities
of the back. The patient can become
shorter |
Bone loss occurs slowly and
there are no symptoms initially. However as bone
mass continues to decrease, even the simple
activities or minimal trauma may cause fractures
to occur. Severe osteoporotic fractures can lead
to acute episodes of back pain and loss of
height.
Who is at risk of Osteoporosis?
Certain people are more likely to develop
osteoporosis than others. Women, especially
white and Asian women are most at risk. The risk
increases with advancing age. It is six times
more common in women than men.
Other factors that increase the risk are:
· Small body build
· Nutritional deficiencies
· Sedentary life-style
· Excessive smoking
· Alcohol abuse
· Hormonal disorders
· Prolonged intake of drugs such as steroids
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
· Hunched Back (Dowager's Hump)
· Loss of Height
· Back Pain
· Impaired Mobility
· Fractures associated with minor events
While the symptoms of osteoporosis appear
late in life, the bones can begin to weaken when
you are still young. Osteoporosis can be called
"the silent thief"", because
there are no early warning signs.
How to detect and prevent Osteoporosis?
Specialized tests called 'bone density tests'
can measure bone density in various sites of the
body. A bone density test can detect
osteoporosis before a fracture occurs, predict
your chances of fracturing in the future, and
determine your rate of bone loss and/or monitor
the effects of treatment if the test is
conducted at intervals of a year or more.
By the age of 20, the average woman has
acquired 98% of her skeletal mass. Building
strong bones during childhood and adolescence
can be the best defense against developing
osteoporosis later by ensuring a balanced diet
rich in calcium. Calcium is one of the best
life-long defenses against osteoporosis.
A healthy lifestyle with no smoking or
excessive alcohol intake may help prevent
osteoporosis.
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