Danger of Brittle Bones_03

(Compilation)

Warning Signs of Osteoporosis

Loss of bone mass produces minimal symptoms, while it quietly eats away skeletal strength,
making bones more susceptible to fracture. For some people, a fracture may therefore be the
first outward sign of osteoporosis. A broken bone as the result of a minor jolt, such as a wrist
fracture following a simple fall, is a good reason to suspect the development of osteoporosis.
An x-ray of the fracture can confirm the extent to which the break was caused by deterioration
of the bone. Fortunately, for many people there are other, less dramatic signs to watch for.

Deep within the bones, an army of cells constantly

tears down aging bone mass and builds it anew.
Since estrogen fosters new growth, the reduced
levels found in menopause can quickly lead to a
reduction in bone density. Adequate supplies of
calcium throughout life can alleviate the problem.
After menopause, hormone replacement therapy can
boost the bones' calcium absorption, preventing
osteoporosis in three-quarters of the women at risk.

Backache
Because the vertebrae are the most common site of fracture, an early symptom of the disease
is a persistent backache in the lower part of the spine. Sudden muscle spasms or pain in the
back can occur while you are resting or doing routine daily tasks. This sudden pain is often
caused by the spontaneous collapse of small sections of the spine that have been severely
thinned or weakened over time. Unlike back pain due to other causes, this pain is localized and
seldom spreads. Seeking treatment from an orthopedic specialist or gynecologist is important.
Women who develop osteoporosis often begin to notice more severe backaches about 9-1/2
years after their last menstrual period or 13 years after surgical menopause.

Height Loss
Spinal osteoporosis is rarely diagnosed until spinal bones have already broken. These breaks
occur at the weakest points of the spinal columnplaces where the spine naturally curves.
People are often unaware that they have these compression fractures because they don't
always cause prolonged or severe pain, or disability. However, one unmistakable warning sign
is a loss of height, which is directly related to spinal crush fractures. This loss of 2-1/2 up to as
much as 8 inches occurs in the upper half of the body. You can and should watch for
development of spinal osteoporosis by routinely measuring and recording your height.

"Dowager's Hump"

With a loss of height due to vertebral fractures comes distortion of the spine's normal curves.
This can lead to the development of a "dowager's hump"a protrusion in the upper back and a
shortening of the chest area, that leaves the ribs practically sitting on the pelvic region. One
consequence is more difficulty in digesting food. Another is the impact on appearance and self
esteem. This hunchback-like appearance is not a natural part of growing older or the result of
poor posture; it is a clear indication of osteoporosis.

Tooth Loss
Tooth loss during midlife (and the thinning of bones that support the teeth) is another
indication of osteoporosis. The loss of tooth-bearing bone, called periodontal disease, is
common among those with osteoporosis. This bone thinning may be detected early by dental
x-rays. To prevent periodontal disease, take extra care with your dental hygiene. This includes
regular checkups and cleanings, brushing twice daily, and daily cleaning with dental floss to
remove bacteria congregating at the gum line.