Osteoporosis is a metabolic disorder characterized by the softening of the bone density due to genetics and lifestyle factors. The bone becomes weak and susceptible to fractures. It is often confused with osteoarthritis which is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the weakening of the cartilage and its ultimate loss. Osteoarthritis can cause excruciating and debilitating pain. You just have to learn how to manage osteoporosis in order to live normally as much as possible.
Who are at risk?
· Women are more prone to osteoporosis than men, more so are older women. Low estrogen level weakens the bone.
· Low testosterone levels in men will also cause the condition.
· Small-framed women have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis than large-boned ladies.
· Asian women are at high risk of getting the condition. It is also noted in the white female race.
What are the risk factors?
· Genes play a significant part in osteoporosis. This bone problem runs in the blood. If you have a family member who suffered from fractures in the past, chances are you can suffer from it too
· Poor nutrition contributes to the disease. The body is deprived of the essential nutrients to build healthy bone tissues
· Prolonged use of certain medications such as anti-seizure medicines, Aluminum-based antacids, chemotherapeutic drugs, steroids and proton pump inhibitors are some of the medicaments that may contribute to the loss of bone tissues
· A sedentary lifestyle may aggravate osteoporosis. Long periods of inactivity also contribute to weaker bones
· Fragile and porous bone mass is attributed to the deficiency in Calcium and Vitamin D
· Smoking and alcohol increase the risk not only of osteoporosis but also of other diseases
How do you prevent early osteoporosis?
· Avoid the risks mentioned above. Although you cannot choose your genes, you can prevent, if not minimize, the consequences of having brittle bones.
· Stop smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Live a healthy lifestyle and practice moderation
· Engage in regular physical activities such as exercise and manual labour
· Avoid high-impact training if you have a history of fractures or bone disorders
· Increase intake of Calcium. Take Vitamin supplements; milk, fish, sardines, cheese, green leafy vegetables, legumes, fruits are good sources of Calcium
· Spend time under the sun. Our body does not produce Vitamin D and the sun is a good source of this vitamin. Vitamin D helps the body absorb Calcium.
Learn how to manage osteoporosis; you don’t have to stop living if you have it. Knowing how to avoid the aggravating factors and prevent it from worsening is the best way to beat it. Ask your doctor about it.