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The skeletal system is the support frame of the body. Bones also provide protection to our vulnerable organs. Under the microscope, a healthy bone appears porous and densely honeycombed. But sometimes, these pores grow much more than normal, causing fragility that leads to many health problems.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that can have devastating consequences. This happens when the bone loses too much of its mbad. About 54 million Americans suffer from low bone mbad and osteoporosis.
Falls, breaks, reduced stature
Falls become much more serious when a person has osteoporosis. A fall that could have resulted in simple bumps and bruises can have disastrous, sometimes fatal consequences. In severe cases, the victims may fracture their bones as a result of seemingly benign acts such as sneezing. Weakened bones simply can not handle stress in the same way as healthy bones, which greatly increases the risk of fracture in patients.
Osteoporosis can also seriously affect the spine. As the vertebrae lose weight and height, they create an unhealthy and curled appearance.
People at risk
Seniors are not the only ones at risk. People with autoimmune diseases, cancers, blood / bone marrow problems, hormonal problems and many other disorders can also develop osteoporosis.
In addition, medications can have adverse effects on bone mbad. Certain chemotherapy drugs, steroids and other medications taken in large doses over a long period of time may contribute to problems of fragility and bone density.
Checking the disease
Some people have no symptoms but still suffer from osteoporosis. Be that as it may, it is important to be on the lookout for signs that prove it. Anyone over 50 who is suffering from a bone fracture should consult a doctor for a diagnostic test. People who notice loss of height or curvature of the upper back should also be examined.
The bone mineral density (BMD) test is painless and can effectively badyze the health of the bones of the spine, hip, forearm and other spots. If you suspect bone loss, ask your doctor for a BMD.
Avoid falls
Fall prevention becomes imperative once a person has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, which is especially important for people over 65 years of age.
Shoes with rubber soles and low heels usually offer the best fit. A cane or walker can provide the stability needed to prevent a fall. On stairs and escalators, be sure to use the handrails. Be aware of slippery floors, especially in polished or exposed public buildings.
It is also important to drive without cluttering outdoors and to have good visibility. Always check the height of the borders before descending. Many other resources are available on the National Osteoporosis Foundation website (www.nof.org).
Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis
Weighting exercises and regular intake of calcium and vitamin D are recommended to improve bone density. Excessive use of alcohol should be avoided and smoking should be stopped. Several prescription medications are used to improve or stabilize bone mbad or to control pain related to compression fractures. These should be used under the supervision of a licensed professional and include medications such as alndronate (Fosamax), ibandronate (Boniva), risedronate (Actonel), PTH, calcitonin, estrogen, etc.
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