The term Osteoporosis refers to a bone disease that appears when bone quality or structure deteriorates, bone mineral density declines, or when bone mass decreases. This may result in a loss of bone density and an elevated risk of fractures such as broken bones. Osteoporosis is known as a "silent" illness because it frequently goes unnoticed until a bone is broken as it barely shows any symptoms. Osteoporosis is considered the main factor of fractures in elderly men and postmenopausal women. Any bone can get weak and also can break, however, hip, spine, and wrist vertebrae are considered the most frequently broken bones.
Regardlessly, osteoporosis can affect both men and women. Mainly women experience the onset of the condition a year or two before menopause. Since primary osteoporosis and estrogen insufficiency are intimately related, postmenopausal women are particularly vulnerable to the condition. The decrease in estrogen during the menopausal transition period causes greater bone resorption than production, which results in osteoporosis. As rather than men, women are more prone to get osteoporosis, there is a misconception regarding the risk factor in men for this disease. Osteoporosis, however, can affect older people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds. If you are looking for treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis in Yeshwanthpur, Manipal Hospitals is your one-shot destination.
Causes and Symptoms of Osteoporosis
A person's chance of developing osteoporosis rises as a result of menopause, which sharply accelerates bone loss. An interconnected system of proteins and minerals makes up bones, giving them the strength and flexibility the body requires. The hormone estrogen is one element that may have an impact on bone structure. Though there is no particular report that indicates the exact mechanism by which estrogen protects bones, it has been assumed that osteocytes produce a protein called SEMA3A that holds the bone matrix in place. It has been concluded that when people become older and their levels of estrogen and SEMA3A decline, osteocytes begin to die, preventing bone from being able to maintain its structure.
Though osteoporosis can develop without a person being aware of it, it has a few observable signs. The symptoms which are mainly visible in women post menopause are as follows:
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Night sweats
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Hot flashes
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Changes to periods
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Reduced sex drive
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Vaginal dryness
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Anxiety
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Mood swings
Consult with our Orthopedician in Yeshwanthpur if you are experiencing the above-mentioned symptoms.
Treatment of Osteoporosis
The main motive of osteoporosis treatment is to avoid bone breaks and fractures. Along with that, providing significant medication to help the bones grow stronger. Based on the findings of the evaluation and considering the bone density scans the treatment options usually be taken. Options for treatment include:
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Vitamin D and Calcium supplements
The main mineral in bones is calcium, and vitamin D aids in calcium absorption in the body. According to experts, at least 10 micrograms of vitamin D and 700 milligrams of calcium should be consumed daily by adults.
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Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMS)
These drugs have effects on the bone that are similar to those of estrogen, therefore they can help in lowering the risk of fractures.
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Parathyroid hormone
Calcium levels in bones are controlled by this hormone. Teriparatide, a parathyroid medication, stimulates the production of new bone-forming cells.
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Bisphosphonates
These drugs slow bone resorption. This lowers the risk of broken bones by maintaining bone mass and density. There are various kinds of bisphosphonates, such as risedronic acid, alendronic acid, zoledronic acid, and ibandronic acid that helps in protecting the bones.
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Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
HRT is occasionally advised for patients who are going through menopause. Due to the risk factors, HRT is not particularly advised for treating osteoporosis, even though it can assist increase bone strength.
Consultant - Orthopedician
Manipal Hospitals, Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
