What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
Unfortunately, there usually aren’t symptoms of early bone loss. Once you’ve developed weakened bones, however, you may notice symptoms such as:2
- Back pain
- Loss of height
- A hunched posture
- Bones that break easily
If you notice any of these symptoms, your doctor may recommend a bone density test.
What causes osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis happens when you lose too much bone or when bone tissue changes. Some things can raise your risk of getting it. Knowing your risks can help you protect your bones and lower your chance of breaks. There are quite a few risk factors to keep in mind:2
- Sex and race – White and Asian women have the highest risk
- Hormone levels – Having too little of certain hormones, like low levels of estrogen during perimenopause or after menopause
- Age – Bone loss speeds up as you get older
- Body size – People with smaller, thinner bones have less bone to lose
- Diet – Having low calcium and vitamin D, being underweight and restricting food may weaken bones
- Medications – Long-term use of certain kinds of medications, such as some cancer medications and glucocorticoid steroids
- Medical conditions – Gastrointestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, certain types of cancer, HIV/AIDS and anorexia nervosa
- Lifestyle – Low levels of physical activity, heavy alcohol use and smoking
- Family history – Having a family history of osteoporosis
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Health care providers typically diagnose osteoporosis during routine screenings. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for women over age 65 and women of any age who have risk factors for osteoporosis.3
Providers diagnose osteoporosis using a bone density test. This painless test uses X-rays to find the amount of minerals in your bones. This helps determine low bone density, risk of future fractures and if osteoporosis treatment is working.3
How is osteoporosis treated?
Osteoporosis treatment focuses on slowing bone loss and preventing fractures. Your health care provider may make new health recommendations. These can include changes to diet, lifestyle and exercise. It may also include fall prevention or medications.3
Can I help prevent osteoporosis?
Weight-bearing exercises may help make your bones stronger. This includes walking, dancing or lifting light weights. Starting these exercises when you are young may help prevent osteoporosis. Exercise can also help prevent falls that may cause broken bones.4
These steps may also help protect your bones:4
When should I see a doctor about osteoporosis?
You should think about seeing your doctor if you went through early menopause or took corticosteroids for many months. Also talk to your provider if you’re noticing signs of osteoporosis. Or, if one of your parents had a hip fracture. With the right treatment and preventive measures, you can take control of your bone health and manage (or even prevent) osteoporosis.