Osteoporosis has a hormonal influence, especially in postmenopausal women, which makes the bones fragile. This disease is more prevalent among women than. Above 50 years elder women are more prone to this. Young women with low bone density also face a risk for osteoporosis later in life. Pregnancy and breastfeeding may cause temporary bone loss. All pregnant or nursing women need to have enough calcium, vitamin D, and exercise to keep their bones healthy.
Factors that increase the risk of developing osteoporosis are:
- Females, as women have thinner bones than men.
- Smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine consumption, lack of physical activities, and improper diet
- Low estrogen levels
- Amenorrhea (loss of the menstrual period)
- Chronic diseases
- Immobility
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Certain medications
Signs and symptoms of Osteoporosis:
Though osteoporosis has no specific cause and symptoms, abrupt changes in the body can indicate problems. Osteoporosis is often considered a silent disease because most people who have osteoporosis will have no symptoms until they have fractured a bone. There are a few signs to check.
- Losing height
- Changes to posture, such as leaning or leaning forward
- Lower back pain
- Lower back pain
- Sloping shoulders
- The curve in the back
Steps To Prevent Osteoporosis
- Certain lifestyle changes can reduce the chances to develop osteoporosis. Enough calcium and vitamin D is required
- Nutrients foods
- Exercises such as weight lifting, walking, hiking, jogging, and tennis are highly recommended
- Don't smoke and drink
Diagnosing Osteoporosis In Women
Diagnosing osteoporosis in young women needs a few steps. Though these steps may vary for each person, they may include:
- Medical history
- Family history
- Physical exam
- Bone mineral density (bone density) testing
- Lab tests
- X-rays
Also, there are a few tests that can be done to check bone density.
Bone density testing or DEXA scan: A bone density test shows the number of bones a person has in the hip, spine, or other bones. It is recommended for postmenopausal women. Bone density tests are required for premenopausal women if there is a radiological diagnostic test and is categorized by T and Z scores. T-score is a measurement of bone density in young people and identifies fracture risk. Z score measures the bone density of the elder people.
CT Scan and MRI: Radiological tests could be performed to identify the cause of the fracture.
Instead of making speculations, see a doctor. Tests should be performed once prescribed by a physician. For the best test results check in with us.