What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes the bones to progressively thin, weaken, and grow more brittle. People who suffer from osteoporosis are more likely to have fractures in areas like the spine and hip than other people are.

What Are the Symptoms of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is known as a silent disease because it gives no warning signs. The bone loss is gradual, and it is not obvious until disaster strikes in many cases. Often, patients find out that they are suffering from osteoporosis when they fall or bump into something and break a bone as a result.

How Does the Doctor Diagnose Osteoporosis?

There are several different tests that may be used to diagnose osteoporosis. Generally, diagnosing osteoporosis is a multi-step process that will start with a complete physical examination, including medical history. The more detailed the medical history is, the more easily that indicators of osteoporosis can be identified. Blood tests and urine tests are often useful in confirming a preliminary diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Some patients will also need to undergo a bone mineral density assessment to make a definitive diagnosis of osteoporosis.

How Common is Osteoporosis Today?

Osteoporosis is extremely common today. Over 53 million people have osteoporosis or are in a group that is at high risk for developing it. Most people who have osteoporosis are older, but people of any age can develop it.

Can Osteoporosis Be Cured?

At this time, there is no cure for osteoporosis. However, there are many ways that a patient and their OB/GYN can work together to prevent further osteoporosis damage. With the proper lifestyle changes, many situations that could result in bone fractures can be entirely avoided. The doctor may also prescribe medications that can help slow down the deterioration of bone. In some patients, hormone therapy may be helpful as well.