Osteoporosis – A Silent Disease

Our bones support us every day, but as we age, they can quietly lose strength. Over time, bones can become weaker and more fragile, often without noticeable symptoms.

This gradual weakening is often caused by osteoporosis, a skeletal disorder that causes reduced bone density and increases the risk of fractures.

Who Gets Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is most common in women after menopause and in older men. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, an estimated 10 million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis, and nearly 80 percent are women.

While the risk increases with age, younger individuals can also develop osteoporosis, especially if there are underlying risk factors.

Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease because symptoms are not always obvious until a fracture occurs. Since the condition weakens your bones over time, there are subtle signs to watch for, some include:

• Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra
• Loss of height over time
• A stooped or slouched posture
• Bones that break more easily, especially in the hip, wrist or spine

Because these changes can happen gradually, they are often overlooked or attributed to normal aging.

“Bone Attack” – A First Sign of Osteoporosis

In many cases, the first sign of osteoporosis is a sudden fracture. These fractures can happen with minimal force, such as a simple fall or twist in a sudden movement.

This can be referred to as a “bone attack” because it can occur without warning and have a sudden, serious impact on your health.

Osteoporosis weakens bones over time, making them more vulnerable to these unexpected breaks. Fractures, especially in the hip or spine, can affect mobility, independence and overall quality of life.

Osteoporosis Diagnosis

If you have any signs or symptoms of bone loss, its important to talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment options. Your doctor may conduct a general health assessment and ask about family history of fracture and menopausal status.

You may be scheduled for a bone density test, called a DXA scan, which measures the mineral content of your bones. It is a quick and painless test that uses low doses of radiation, like an x-ray.

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, your doctor will discuss treatment options for you, such as drug and hormone therapies.

Osteoporosis Prevention & Management

The best way to help prevent osteoporosis is to act early. Regular physical activity, including weight bearing exercise, strength training and balance or posture work, can help maintain bone strength over time. A diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and protein also plays an important role in supporting bone health.

Talk to your doctor about your risk level and whether a DXA scan screening may be right for you.

If you do not have a primary care provider, visit mypvhc.com to find one near you and start the conversation about protecting your bone and joint health.