What Do You Mean by Osteoporosis?
There is no doubt that bones deteriorate with age. But in some individuals, they start turning brittle and weaker much faster. And this medical condition is known as osteoporosis or silent disease.
You would certainly like to know why it is referred to as a silent disease. Well, the reason is simple. Patients realize they are suffering from osteoporosis only when they break a bone.
Four Stages of Osteoporosis Explained
1. Stage One:
As a part of bone remodeling, the body slowly breaks down old bones and replaces them with new ones. Overall, more bone material is produced than the amount being used. However, in patients suffering from osteoporosis stage 1, the bone loss and formation process happens with the same ratio. There are no symptoms of osteoporosis in this stage.
Even the bone density score may remain normal in most cases. Individuals in their 30s may naturally reach a point when bone loss and formation happen at the same level. Thus, diagnosis remains a challenge.
2. Stage Two:
In this stage of osteoporosis, bone formation slows down even further in comparison to bone loss. But, patients do not experience any symptoms, and bones remain less likely to be fractured.
Bone density score, determined with the help of bone density age chart, can help diagnose osteopenia because the bone mass appears low. Thankfully, the condition is reversible. Performing exercises routinely, and eating a proper nutritional diet along with prescribed medicines can help ensure this condition does not turn into osteoporosis.
3. Stage Three:
Patients in the third stage are prone to fractures. The bone growth is far less than the bone loss, and bone thinning is noticeable. In most reported cases, the bone density drops down to -2.5 or even lower. Thus, ortho experts tag patients in stage 3 as those suffering from osteoporosis.
The condition often gets diagnosed in a bone density test. Ortho specialists recommend the test when even a minor fall results in a fracture.
When it comes to treatment, doctors recommend medicines, exercise routine, or physiotherapy depending on the severity of the condition. Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial to ensure the condition does not deteriorate to stage four.
4. Stage Four:
The fourth one is the last of the osteoporosis stages. Most individuals realize they have osteoporosis only after reaching stage four. And this is not surprising because patients experience symptoms like a stooped posture, and chronic pain. Tests also highlight a severe bone density loss. In severe cases, there is loss of height when bones in the spine are affected. The risk of bone fractures is too high for such persons.
Symptoms are so severe in this stage that there is no need left for diagnosis. Treatment involves pain management medications, changes in diet and overall lifestyle. Patients may also require supportive care and surgeries to stabilize fractures.
A Glimpse into Risk Factors That Can Lead to Osteoporosis
Gender
Age
Obesity
Family history
Hormonal changes
Diet
Medical conditions like gastrointestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, HIV/AIDS
Certain medications, including those for asthma, heart disease, cancer and depression
Lifestyle
What's the Difference Between a Normal Bone vs. Osteoporosis Diagram?
An osteoporosis diagram or osteoporosis pictures can help visualize this condition in a simple manner. Diagrams for healthy ones appear dense, with a honeycomb-like structure. On the other hand, bones in osteoporosis patients show little holes, more like a honeycomb with larger spaces, under microscope.
Is There Any Way to Prevent Disease and Resulting Fractures?
Bone osteoporosis occurs when the structure of the bone tissue changes due to too much bone mass loss. And yes, there are ways you take precautions to prevent this medical condition from developing. Even basic physical activities, including walking, can keep you physically active. Ensure you eat foods that have sufficient amounts of nutrients. Calcium and vitamin D can ensure superb bone health. In case you suffer from bone disease, take medications prescribed by your doctor regularly. Last but not the least, you should keep alcohol and tobacco consumption under control.
Also Read: 10 Natural Ways to Boost Bone Health
Conclusion
Some estimates suggest one in four men and one in every two women above the age of 50 suffer from this medical condition which increases skeletal fragility. All stages of osteoporosis disease require treatment from a qualified orthopedic. Yes, self-care does not work when it comes to treating osteoporosis bone even in the first two osteoporosis stages.
An Orthopedic doctor, like those at Polaris Healthcare, can conduct a detailed check up to determine if bones are osteoporotic. Then, guide you with a treatment plan to help you before the condition worsens.
Related:
Want to consult the best orthopedic surgeons in Pune? Please take a look at the links below.
About The Author: Dr. Surendra Patil (M.B.B.S DNB / D.Ortho)
Dr. Surendra Patil, MBBS, Diploma in Orthopaedics, DNB - Orthopedics Surgery, is a dynamic surgeon with skilled hands well versed in various surgical procedures in orthopedics and exceptionally well-read in his chosen expertise. He is proficient in Arthroscopic Surgeries, Adult Joint Reconstruction Surgery, Accidents & Emergencies, Joint Replacement, Healthcare Management, and Healthcare in general. He is an experienced Medical Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the hospital & healthcare industry. Follow: LinkedIn
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