Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone is lost and the affected person doesn’t experience any sign until the bone breaks due to a fall, bump, or strain. Known as the silent disease, osteoporosis doesn’t show any signs in the initial stages. Upon weakening of the bones, you may experience:

• Back pain
• Bone fracture
• Stooped posture
• Loss of height

The bones become less dense and less strong with age, when there is loss of bone material and weakened bones are unable to support body weight. Though the condition is more common in seniors, the symptoms of osteoporosis may show up in young men and women.

Causes of Osteoporosis

Calcium is a major component of bones that undergo a constant process of renewal – breakdown and formation of new bones. Hormones produced in the body influence the bone formation cycle, which is also affected by the levels of calcium and vitamin D that help in the maintenance of healthy and strong bones.
Osteoporosis symptoms start to affect the body when the loss of bone tissue and minerals is faster than the formation of bones.
Women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. A drop in estrogen levels after menopause raises the rate of bone loss, as ovaries stop producing estrogen, which is critical for the bone repair process. Women suffering from anorexia nervosa are at a higher risk for osteoporosis due to a significant drop in estrogen levels.
Family history may also raise your risk of osteoporosis tends, especially if a parent has had suffered a hip fracture.
Smoking and excessive drinking or drug addiction may also raise your osteoporosis risk. A person suffering from certain medical conditions, including celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, hypogonadism, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease faces a high risk of bone loss due to osteoporosis.
Physical inactivity poses a serious threat of weakened bones and osteoporosis. People who are physically active are at a less risk of the disease, as exercising strengthens bones.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Weakened bones cannot support body weight, raising the risk of fracture even under slight pressure. Spine, wrist, and hipbones are at a great risk of such fractures. Hip fractures are more common in the elderly.
Hairline breaks in the spine is one of the most common osteoporosis symptoms that may cause little or no pain.
Vertebral column crumbles or collapses in the event of spinal crush fractures, which are much more painful and result in a deformed posture.
Chronic back pain is another symptom of osteoporosis. The pain worsens even when small movements are made or when you are standing still.
Regular intake of calcium is critical to the maintenance of bone strength. You can prevent osteoporosis by engaging in regular physical activity and boosting your hormone and calcium levels. Making lifestyle adjustments can go a long way in improving your bone health.