Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition in which there is decreased quantity of bone, causing your bones to become weak and more likely to fracture or break.

During childhood and early adult life bone increases to its maximum amount around age 30. Normally, your body forms enough new bone tissue to balance the amount of bone tissue that gets broken down and absorbed by your body.

After menopause this balanced process can be lost - more bone is broken down than is formed and your bones become extremely weak, this is when osteoporosis can occur.

Over time, your bones become thinner, weigh less and can handle less stress. They can, therefore, break or fracture much more easily, such as from a fall from a standing position to the ground. Fractures can occur at the hip, spine, wrist and other body sites. Because the bone is weak, these are known as fragility fractures. Osteoporosis can lead to serious complications.

Factors giving a higher risk

Female
Thin or have a small frame
Caucasian or Asian
Older
Using some medications, including corticosteroids, some anti-seizure medicines; and overusing thyroid hormone.
A family history of osteoporosis
Completed menopause
Absent menstrual periods
Anorexia nervosa or other eating disorders
An inactive lifestyle
A diet low in calcium
Inadequate amounts of vitamin D in your diet
Smoke cigarettes
Drink too much alcohol

Treatment

Treatment for osteoporosis always includes exercise and the right amount of calcium in the diet. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Older men and women probably should take vitamin D supplements. Younger women may want to take vitamin D supplements, too. A well-balanced diet with calcium-rich foods plus calcium and vitamin D supplements may not be enough to protect bones in all people. Everyone's body and family history are different. Some people need to take medications.

Prevention

The best way to keep your bones healthy is to establish a healthy lifestyle. Good advice for everyone, of course, but especially true if you have risk factors for osteoporosis. As a start, you may try to:

• Stop smoking
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol
• Take adequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium
• Do weight-bearing exercises to stay physically fit
• Avoid high doses of thyroid hormone or cortisone-like medications. If you have to take them, work with your doctor to get the lowest possible dose to treat your condition.

Diet and Exercise Make a Difference

Diet and exercise can make a difference in the prevention of osteoporosis. Calcium, the main compound needed to keep your bones strong and healthy, is found in many foods, and exercise stimulates bone to be stronger. About 500 - 600 mg of calcium is usually present in a normal diet, largely from dairy products. However, most people only get about 400 mg per day so they may opt to supplement their diet with calcium in tablets. Exercise is the other important key to keeping your bones fit. Exercise also improves strength and balance, which may decrease the risk of falling. You will need to check with your doctor, however, before you begin any new exercises or physical activities.

For information and advice relating to osteoporosis please visit the websites below.

National Osteoporosis Society Online - for advice and support

Medinfo - medical information site

NHS Direct - Online Health Encyclopaedia

ARC - information and support