People of any age can develop osteoporosis. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, 1 in 2 women and up to 1 in 4 men age 50 or older will break a bone due to this condition. See below for steps you can take to keep your bones healthy and slow bone loss.
It’s important to take care of your health and get the preventive care that your doctor recommends. See these recommendations for some of the most common preventive care.
What causes osteoporosis?
As we age, our bodies become less able to absorb the calcium needed to support healthy bones. As a result, our bones may become weak or brittle and break easily. Usually this bone loss happens over several years.
Many other factors also contribute to osteoporosis. You can control some, but not all, of these factors.
Signs of osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a silent disease. You won’t be able to feel your bones weakening. Often, the first sign may be a broken bone in your hip, spine or wrist. Or you may notice you are getting shorter or your upper back is curving forward. Talk with your doctor as soon as you notice changes in your height or a curve in your spine.
Treatment for osteoporosis
Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or prescribe drugs that can rebuild bone or slow the rate of bone loss. You’ll likely need to have follow-up visits with your doctor to check the success of your treatment plan in slowing bone loss.