Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bone decay and affects around 53 million Americans. The usually small spaces inside the bones grow bigger in patients suffering from the ailment, making them brittle and susceptible to fractures. Although osteoporosis is more likely in adults, it can affect anyone and leads to serious pain in the ribs, hips, and a few other parts of the body. Herein, we’ll be discussing the condition in detail by answering four frequently asked questions about it.
What causes osteoporosis?
The bones, like every part of the body, are healthiest when young. The process of regrowing old bone mass with new ones is at its best before the age of 30. Hence, young adults and adolescents are least likely to develop osteoporosis. As people grow, however, this natural process of bone regrowth slows down. New bones aren’t made fast enough, leading to a shortage of bone mass. This explains why adults are at greater risk of osteoporosis. That being said, not every person goes on to develop osteoporosis. Bone peak mass is a crucial differentiator as people with higher peak bone mass are less likely to suffer from the ailment.
The side effects of certain medications also increase the likelihood of osteoporosis as well. Heparin (a blood thinner) and corticosteroids can both cause bone loss, and subsequently increase the risk of osteoporosis. A history of the condition in the family, existing thyroid problems, and eating habits are some other factors that commonly lead to osteoporosis.
What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Symptoms of osteoporosis are non-existent at the start. Only after a period of time, signs like pain in the back and joints, frequent fractures, and receding gums show up. Patients also report a sudden decrease in height due to breaks in the spinal vertebrae. In case of severe osteoporosis, a severe sneeze or cough might even trigger a fracture.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
The doctor begins diagnoses by examining the patient’s medical record, age, and family history. If they feel the individual is suffering from or might be at risk of osteoporosis, a bone density test is immediately ordered. The procedure utilizes an X-ray to determine the quantity of calcium and a few other minerals in the bones.
Besides being a firm indicator of osteoporosis, the test also reveals the probability of an individual getting a fracture. The final report contains T- and Z-scores to indicate an individual’s bone condition compared to that of a healthy human being.
Which medications are used for treating osteoporosis?
Depending on the dynamics of the patient’s body, a doctor may recommend one or more medications that can help manage symptoms. Some main examples are
- Bisphosphonates
Medicines belonging to this category prevent the loss of bone mass. Although commonly used to treat osteoporosis, bisphosphonates are often prescribed for patients suffering from bone cancer as well. Zoledronic acid (Reclast) and risedronate (Actonel, Atelvia) are two forms of bisphosphonates that can either be taken orally or intravenously. - Teriparatide (Forteo)
Some individuals, due to the nature of their body, cannot tolerate some medications used in osteoporosis treatment. In such a scenario, doctors recommend medications that have pretty much the same effect and aren’t as heavy on the body either. Forteo is highly recommended in postmenopausal women and men of all ages. It helps new bone growth and can be taken repeatedly without fear of dangerous side effects. - Romosozumab (Evenity)
This medication is also commonly given to postmenopausal women who could be at risk or suffering from osteoporosis. The medication, which received approval just last year, is highly effective in reducing risks of fractures and also works for patients that might be intolerant to other osteoporosis medications. Evenity can only be injected, with the total dose being no higher than 210 mg. - Hormone therapy
Medications that boost hormones like estrogen and testosterone have gone on to improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, medications such as raloxifene (Evista) are widely advised, although there are certain side effects to each of these.
