Decreased bone density - Vitality Medical Center

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a medical condition characterized by porous and brittle bones that are more susceptible to fractures. This happens when the body removes more bone tissue than it replaces over time.

Some key points about decreased bone density:

• It often develops slowly and without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Many people don't know their bones are getting weaker.
• Low peak bone mass and rapid bone loss later in life are the main causes. Getting adequate vitamins, minerals, and exercise earlier in life helps maximize peak bone mass.
• Postmenopausal women are most at risk due to declining estrogen levels. Other risk factors include family history, smoking, low body weight, poor nutrition, and long-term medications.
• Fractures often occur in the wrist, spine, or hip regions. These broken bones are harder to heal and more disabling compared to fractures in healthy bones.
• Screening tests such as DXA scans can precisely measure bone mineral density. They help diagnose decreased bone density before painful fractures happen.
• Several medications can treat osteoporosis. Most work by slowing down bone loss to strengthen bones. These include bisphosphonates, denosumab, raloxifene, calcitonin, PTH, and more.
• Making lifestyle changes is crucial too. Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, not smoking, consuming calcium and vitamin D, and fall prevention all protect remaining bone mass as we age. For postmenopausal women, hormone therapy is also an option.

The bottom line is decreased bone density leaves bones porous and weak. This slowly progresses for years before resulting in fractures. Screening assessments and early medical treatment along with protective lifestyle changes are vital to halt bone deterioration. Maintaining strong healthy bones into older age is key to preventing painful debilitating fractures, especially in higher-risk individuals. The good news is much can be done to beat decreased bone density!

If you have any questions about decreased bone density, please don't hesitate to contact Vitality Medical Center for more information.