OSTEOPOROSIS |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Loss of normal bone density, mass and strength, leading to increased porousness and vulnerability to fracture. This is rare in men. It is most likely to develop in women after menopause, particularly women who lead sedentary lives and have insufficient calcium intake. Conversely, osteoporosis at an early age is also likely in women who exercise so strenuously (such as marathon runners) that menstrual periods cease and estrogen production declines.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS EARLY STAGES:
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Backache.
No symptoms (often). LATER STAGES:
Fractures, especially of the hip or arm, occurring after minor injury.
Deformed spinal column with humps, leading to loss of height.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORSLoss of bony structure and strength. Factors include:
Prolonged lack of adequate calcium and protein in the diet.
Long-term, excessive exercise in women.
Low estrogen levels after menopause.
Decreased activity with increased age.
Smoking (possibly).
Use of corticosteroid drugs.
Prolonged disease, including alcoholism.
Vitamin deficiency (especially of vitamin D).
Hyperthyroidism.
Cancer that spreads to bone.
Surgery to remove the ovaries.
Radiation treatment for ovarian cancer.
Chronic or recurrent urinary-tract or other pelvic infections.
Family history of osteoporosis.
Body type. Thin women with a small frame are more susceptible.
Genetic factors. Caucasian or Oriental women are most at risk.
HOW TO PREVENT
Moderate exercise helps prevent or reverse osteoporosis by making bones thicker and stronger. Begin an exercise program before menopause and continue for life. Get clearance from your doctor before beginning.
Ensure an adequate calcium intake--approximately 1500mg a day--with milk and milk products or calcium supplements.
Protect yourself against falls, especially in the home.
Consult your doctor about taking estrogen, calcium and fluoride after menopause begins or the ovaries have been removed--even if you have no signs of osteoporosis.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and exam by a doctor.
X-rays of bones and blood studies.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSDiet, calcium and fluoride supplements, vitamin D, exercise and estrogen can halt progress of the disease. Fractures heal slowly with treatment.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSBone fracture after a fall. The hip and spine are most vulnerable. Fractured hips require surgery. Sometimes a bone will break or collapse without injury or a fall.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTIf estrogen is prescribed, visit your doctor for regular pelvic exams, breast exams and Pap smears. Examine your breasts for lumps once a month. Report vaginal bleeding or discharge.
HOME TREATMENT
If you already have osteoporosis, avoid all circumstances that may lead to injury. Stay off icy streets and wet or waxed floors.
Use heat or ice in any form to ease pain.
Sleep on a firm mattress.
Use a back brace, if prescribed by your doctor.
Use correct posture when lifting.
ACTIVITY
Stay active, but avoid the risk of falls. Exercise--especially weight-bearing exercise, such as walking or running -- helps maintain bone strength.
MEDICATION
You may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen to relieve minor pain.
Your doctor may prescribe:
Calcium and vitamin D.
Fluoride.
Estrogen-replacement therapy.
DIETEat a normal, well-balanced diet high in protein, calcium and vitamin D.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of osteoporosis.
Pain develops, especially after injury.
New, unexplained symptoms develop, such as vaginal bleeding. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
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