Osteoporosis, medically known as osteoporosis, is a condition in which the density of bones decreases and they become weaker. This causes bones to become brittle and break more easily. Although osteoporosis usually occurs with aging, genetic factors, hormonal changes, insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake, and a sedentary lifestyle also play a role in the development of the disease. Women, especially in the postmenopausal period, are at higher risk for osteoporosis. Regular exercise, a healthy diet and necessary vitamin and mineral supplements are among the preventive measures against osteoporosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of the disease.
Table of Contents
- What is osteoporosis? What to Know About the Silent Disease
- Causes of Bone Resorption
- Symptoms of Osteoporosis
- Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
- Laboratory Tests Requested in the Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
- Bone Resorption Treatment
- What is Good for Bone Resorption? Methods Supporting Bone Health
- Where Does Osteoporosis First Start? Areas at Risk
- Bone Resorption Treatment and Precautions with Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is osteoporosis? What to Know About the Silent Disease
Osteoporosis, medically known as osteoporosis, is a skeletal disease in which the mineral density of bones decreases and they become structurally weakened. This leads to more fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hips, spine and wrists. Osteoporosis often progresses without any obvious symptoms and is therefore referred to as a “silent disease”. It is often associated with factors such as aging, hormonal changes and inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake. Measures such as regular exercise and a healthy diet play an important role in reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Causes of Bone Resorption
Osteoporosis, or osteoporosis, can have many causes. One of the most common causes is the natural decrease in bone density with the aging process. Especially in post-menopausal women, bone loss accelerates with the decrease in the hormone estrogen. Inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake can lead to weakening of the bones. Sedentary lifestyle, smoking and alcohol use are also among the factors that negatively affect bone health. Genetic predisposition, some chronic diseases and long-term use of medications such as corticosteroids also increase the risk of osteoporosis. When these factors come together, bone density decreases and the risk of fracture increases.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, or osteoporosis, usually has no obvious symptoms at the onset and is therefore known as a “silent disease”. However, as the disease progresses, some symptoms may appear. The most common symptoms include back pain, especially pain caused by fractures in the bones of the spine. Over time, posture disorders, hunchback and short stature can also be observed. The occurrence of bone fractures even with mild impacts is one of the most important signs of osteoporosis. In addition, frequent fractures in areas such as the wrist, hip or spine indicate advanced stages of the disease.
Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
Bone loss, or osteoporosis, is usually diagnosed by measuring bone density. The most commonly used method is a bone density test called DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry). This test determines the extent of osteoporosis by measuring bone density, especially in areas at high risk of fracture, such as the spine, hips and wrists. Doctors also assess the patient’s medical history, family history and lifestyle. In some cases, blood and urine tests may also be performed. This is because these tests provide information on bone turnover and mineral levels. Early diagnosis is crucial to slow the progression of the disease and reduce the risk of fractures.
Laboratory Tests Requested in the Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
Although bone density testing is the main method used to diagnose osteoporosis, some laboratory tests are also ordered to investigate the causes of the disease and to provide information about general health. These tests may include:
-Calcium and Phosphorus Test: Measuring calcium and phosphorus levels provides information about bone metabolism. Low calcium levels can negatively affect bone health.
-Vitamin D Test: Vitamin D is vital for the absorption of calcium. Insufficient vitamin D levels can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
-Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test: Parathyroid hormone regulates calcium balance. High levels of PTH can contribute to osteoporosis by causing calcium withdrawal from the bones.
-Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test: High ALP levels may indicate an abnormal remodeling process in the bones and may increase in osteoporosis.
-C-Telopeptide (CTX) and N-Telopeptide (NTX) Tests: These tests measure the rate of bone breakdown. High levels may indicate accelerated bone loss.
-Testosterone and Estrogen Tests: Hormone levels can affect bone health, especially in postmenopausal women or men with testosterone deficiency.
These tests can be used by doctors to better understand the cause of osteoporosis and plan treatment.
Bone Resorption Treatment
Treatment of osteoporosis is aimed at stopping bone loss, increasing bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. Treatment is combined with lifestyle changes and medication. Calcium and vitamin D supplements support bone health, while regular weight-bearing exercises and physical activity help maintain bone density. It is also important to avoid smoking and alcohol consumption. Medications such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) are used to prevent bone loss. Hormone therapy may also be recommended in some patients. The treatment process is planned individually and requires regular follow-up.
What is Good for Bone Resorption? Methods Supporting Bone Health
The remedies focus on strengthening bone health and preventing bone loss. First, eating calcium-rich foods helps to keep bones strong. Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese and green leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium. In addition, vitamin D intake is also critical for bone health because it helps the body absorb calcium. While sunlight increases vitamin D synthesis, supplements can also meet this need. Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, helps to increase bone density. Quitting smoking and alcohol consumption contributes positively to bone health. In addition, a balanced intake of minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus and vitamin K can also have a protective effect against osteoporosis.
Where Does Osteoporosis First Start? Areas at Risk
Osteoporosis (osteoporosis) usually starts in the areas where bone density is highest and these areas are most at risk. The bones of the spine, hips and wrists are usually the first to be affected by osteoporosis. In particular, the bones in the spine are subjected to intense pressure as they are responsible for carrying the body. This is why osteoporosis can occur first in this area. Bone loss in the vertebrae can lead to back pain, hunchback and short stature. The bones in the hips and wrists can also become brittle and easily fracture in a fall or impact. Therefore, it is very important to diagnose and treat osteoporosis before it progresses in order to prevent fractures in these areas.
Bone Resorption Treatment and Precautions with Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar
Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar, an orthopedic and traumatology specialist, carries out important studies in the treatment of osteoporosis. Dr. Nar, who serves in Bursa, recommends calcium and vitamin D supplements to his patients to maintain bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. He also emphasizes the importance of regular exercise and proper nutrition. In addition, by using up-to-date methods in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, she creates individualized treatment plans to minimize bone loss and reduce fracture risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is osteoporosis and how does it occur?
Osteoporosis is a disease that occurs whenbone density decreases and bones become weak and brittle. Factors such as aging, hormonal changes and insufficient calcium intake can lead to this condition.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is usually asymptomatic. However, in later stages, symptoms such as back pain, hunchback, short stature and bone fractures may occur.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed with a bone density measurement test called DEXA. Blood tests and the patient’s medical history are also evaluated.
What can be done to prevent osteoporosis?
Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption are important factors that reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Who is more prone to osteoporosis?
Women are at higher risk, especially in the post-menopausal period due to a decline in estrogen levels. Older people, those with a family history and those with a sedentary lifestyle are also at risk.
Which medicines are used to treat osteoporosis?
Drugs such as bisphosphonates, denosumab and hormone replacement therapies can be used for treatment Treatment is determined by the person’s age, gender and level of bone loss
These questions shed light on the most common basic questions about osteoporosis
Youtube Videos
