Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
I am pretty sure that you have heard of Osteoporosis. You might have even seen or known someone who is suffering from it. However, do you really know what it is? Are you familiar with the symptoms of Osteoporosis? If you do not have an answer to these questions, you have to continue reading this article.
Osteoporosis is a condition which is defined as a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by weakened bone strength due to various factors. This medical condition usually occurs to people with low calcium intake, tobacco use, eating disorders, sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol intake, age 40 and above, White or Asian and have thyroid problems.
Symptoms of osteoporosis predispose the bone to fracture more. A fracture results when the osteoporotic bone encounters a force greater than it can withstand. The two components of bone strength include bone mineral density and bone quality. This condition is a major public health problem in many parts of the world. Research shows that its scope will increase as the population ages.
Osteoporotic fractures also create a heavy economic burden. Costs to a health care system associated with osteoporotic fractures are high, even a single fracture to the hip is estimated to cost $40,000. According to a study the number of osteoporotic fractures will increase three-folds by the year 2040.
Facts and Symptoms of Osteoporosis
The early part of the disease may cause you to be asymptomatic. This simply means that you will notice no visible symptoms. In most people the diagnosis of osteoporosis is made after a fracture. Take note of these two major symptoms of osteoporosis:
1. Sudden onset of severe back pain that worsens with movement and is relieved by rest
The sudden onset of severe back pain explains that the vertebrae (bone of the spine) are getting weak due to impaired bone remodeling. Bone remodeling takes place all the time within the bone. It starts first with osteoclast (breakdown of the bone) then osteoblast (formation of bones). If a disruption occurs in these processes such as lack in vitamin D or calcium, one might experience back pain. This is one of the common symptoms of osteoporosis.
2. Progressive deformities that may lead to shortened stature and bone loss with a visible change in gait
Did you know that the spine is not straight? It is in an “S” form to absorb shock. If it gets deviated from that “S” form, you should take this as a signal that something might be wrong with your bones.
Osteoporosis usually takes its toll on the spine, weakening it and bending it. If you are getting shorter by the year do not be petrified and automatically assume that you have osteoporosis. For your peace of mind, visit your doctor and ask him to check if your shortened stature has something to do with kyphosis (hunched back/round back). This is one of the major symptoms of osteoporosis.
Several studies have suggested the following. First, there is an increased risk of fractures in people with high vitamin A intake. Second, the risk of fracture was highest among men with the highest vitamin A levels. Third, initial data suggest that megadoses of vitamin A (doses reaching 15,000 IU) may be associated with substantially high risk of bone fracture. Lastly, vitamin A in large doses has been associated with the inhibition of bone-forming cells.
It is therefore important to visit your doctor and ask him to evaluate your vitamin A level and examine you for symptoms of osteoporosis once you experience severe back pain that worsens with movement but is relieved by rest.
Also, here is a video below about the symptoms and treatment of osteoporosis. Check it out!
