Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and prone to fractures due to loss of bone mass and the formation of pores. Advanced age, as well as calcium and vitamin D deficiency, are common causes of osteoporosis.

Known as a silent disease, it often shows no symptoms until a fracture occurs. These injuries most commonly affect the hips, wrists, and spine.

Symptoms

Many people with osteoporosis do not show symptoms until they experience a fracture. When symptoms do appear, they usually start with back pain and difficulty maintaining an upright posture. Other symptoms include:

• postural changes: the back becomes curved and the head leans forward, indicating spinal weakening
• frequent fractures: bones break easily, even with minor falls or low-impact trauma
• height reduction: over time, spinal bone weakening may cause a loss of a few centimeters in height

Causes

Osteoporosis can be classified as primary or secondary. Primary osteoporosis is the most common and occurs without other diseases, mainly after menopause or in older adults.

Secondary osteoporosis is linked to prolonged use of certain medications (such as cortisone) and pre-existing conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis and hyperthyroidism).

Primary osteoporosis is associated with several risk factors, including:

• family history: people with close relatives who have the disease are more likely to develop it
• aging: as people age, their bones tend to lose calcium and become porous
• hormonal changes: especially during menopause, the reduction of hormones like estrogen accelerates calcium loss. The age-related decline in testosterone also contributes to osteoporosis
• calcium and vitamin D deficiency: calcium (found in foods like milk, salmon, and broccoli) is a key bone component, and vitamin D (activated by sunlight and found in foods like tuna) helps the body absorb calcium. Low levels of both can weaken bones
• lack of physical activity: a sedentary lifestyle can weaken muscles, reducing support for bones
• smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: these habits harm health and interfere with calcium absorption

Diagnosis

Osteoporosis is diagnosed by a healthcare professional through various assessments and tests. The main ones include:

• clinical evaluation: gathering information about symptoms and the patient’s medical and family history
• physical exam: assessing posture and checking for pain in specific areas
• bone densitometry: an imaging test using radiation to measure bone density in the hips and spine
• x-ray: helps detect bone porosity and fractures
• blood test: mainly evaluates calcium, vitamin D, and hormone levels
• bone metabolism test: analyzes blood or urine samples in a lab to assess bone health and function

Treatment

After diagnosis, the healthcare professional may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplementation, along with dietary adjustments to strengthen bones and prevent fractures. Treatment may include:

• medications: various drugs are used to reduce bone loss or increase bone formation. Each has specific indications and contraindications, so medical guidance is essential
• supplements: some patients may need calcium and vitamin D supplements, usually in tablet form
• proper nutrition: adopting a calcium-rich diet (including cheese and vegetables like kale) and vitamin D (from seafood and sun exposure for about 15 minutes daily)
• exercise routine: regular low-impact physical activity (such as walking and weight training) helps strengthen muscles and bones. Professional guidance is important to choose safe and effective exercises

Prevention

Certain practices are recommended to maintain bone health, such as:

• calcium-rich foods: consuming dairy products (milk, cheese) and vegetables like broccoli and spinach
• avoiding certain foods: items like coffee and salt may hinder calcium absorption
• sun exposure at appropriate times: between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m., about 15 minutes of sun exposure can help balance vitamin D levels
• regular physical activity: helps strengthen muscles that support bones
• avoiding tobacco and alcohol: smoking and excessive drinking can interfere with calcium absorption
• regular exams during menopause: women in menopause should undergo regular tests to monitor bone health

References

Virtual Health Library
Brazilian Ministry of Health

You may also like to read about:

Rheumatoid arthritis: a disease that affects joints, mainly in the hands and feet, caused by an immune system disorder [...]

Rickets: characterized by bone softening and weakening in children, usually due to severe and prolonged vitamin D deficiency [...]

Wrist fractures: occur when a bone in the wrist or hand breaks or cracks [...]

By Einstein Editorial Board