Osteoporosis: A serious threat to the body
Bones are the strongest structure of our body. Each bone helps our body function properly and enables us to move, function, and even stand in our daily lives. But over time or due to some health reasons, bone loss can occur, which poses a serious risk to our health. Bone loss is commonly called osteoporosis or decreased bone density. This gradually weakens the bone and increases the likelihood of fracture. Bone loss is not only a cause of physical suffering, but it also has a huge impact on mental and daily life.
Causes of bone loss
Among these the main reasons are:
1. Age-related effects: As we age, our bone density decreases. Bone loss can be particularly rapid after menopause in women, as levels of the hormone estrogen, which maintains bone density, decrease.
2. Calcium Deficiency: Calcium is a very important mineral in maintaining bone strength and density. People who do not have enough calcium in their diet can have weak bones and are prone to wear and tear.
3. Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D plays an important role in preventing bone loss. It helps the body absorb calcium. Without vitamin D, the body cannot absorb enough calcium, which can lead to bone loss.
4. Lifestyle: Lack of physical exercise or exercise, smoking and excessive drinking increase the risk of bone loss. In addition, excessive consumption of caffeine and soft drinks can also be harmful to bone health.
5. Hormonal Imbalance: Over or under production of thyroid or parathyroid hormone can accelerate bone loss.
Effects of bone loss
The biggest effect of osteoporosis is an increased risk of fracture. Usually the back, waist or wrists are often the victims of this damage. Such injuries make a person’s daily life difficult and limit their mobility. Osteoporosis can cause bones to become so weak that they break with the slightest stress. For example, a minor fall or even a minor injury can be enough to break a bone.
When bone loss occurs, the body’s overall structure weakens, which can lead to a hunched back, lower back pain, and reduced body length. At their most severe, bone fractures can cause pain, disability, and even death, especially in the elderly.
Ways of prevention
Bone loss can be prevented if timely measures are taken. Bone health can be maintained by following proper nutrition, regular exercise, and certain healthy lifestyle habits.
1. Adequate calcium intake: Calcium is an essential element for bones. About 1000-1200 mg of calcium should be consumed daily. The main sources of calcium are milk, yogurt, cheese, green vegetables, fish, and nuts.
2. Ensuring Vitamin D Adequacy: Vitamin D is important in preventing bone loss. Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D. Also, consuming egg yolks, mushrooms, and vitamin D-rich foods are also helpful in meeting vitamin D needs.
3. Regular physical exercise: Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, running, and lifting weights are helpful in preventing bone loss. They increase bone density and make bones stronger.
4. Avoiding smoking and drinking: Smoking and excessive drinking increase bone loss. Abandoning this habit improves bone health.
5. Regular health check-ups: Regular health check-ups should be done especially after 50 years. Dexa scan (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), which measures bone density, is done to determine bone loss or osteoporosis.
treatment
If bone loss starts, take action as per doctor’s advice. Treatment mainly relies on medication, dietary changes, and physical therapy. Some common treatments are:
1. Medicines: Medicines called bisphosphonates play an effective role in preventing bone loss. It slows down the process of bone breakdown and increases bone density. Also, some hormone therapy and calcitonin are used.
2. Supplements of calcium and vitamin D: When it is not possible to get enough calcium and vitamin D from food, supplements are taken.
3. Physical therapy: Physical therapy and special exercises help strengthen bones and increase physical activity.
Mental health and social impact
Bone loss can cause physical damage as well as make a person mentally helpless. People who suffer from bone loss or fractures may lose confidence and become unable to perform daily activities. This becomes especially difficult for the elderly, as they may suffer from depression at not being able to move about independently. It also affects the family and social environment. Many times the patients become dependent on the family, which causes them emotional distress.
Conclusion
Both prevention and treatment of osteoporosis are very important. Maintaining bone health is essential to maintaining our body’s structure and strength. We can reduce the risk of bone loss through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and proper treatment
I can By taking timely measures and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to protect yourself from the risk of osteoporosis. So be aware and take care of your bones from today.
