Osteoporosis (Bone Thinning)? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Bones regenerate over time, but as age increases, this regeneration slows down. If the reduction in regeneration occurs faster than normal, it indicates the presence of osteoporosis. Poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle starting in childhood play a role in the development of various bone disorders later in life. Osteoporosis is a bone disease that affects bone density and puts health at risk. The symptoms of osteoporosis are often noticed after a fall, which is why it is called a "silent" disease. Painful bones and issues like a hunched back are other symptoms of osteoporosis. Lifestyle changes can help prevent osteoporosis or support treatment.

What is Osteoporosis?

Bones are one of the structures that make up the human body, and osteoporosis is a condition that reduces the mineral density and mass of bones. Bone tissue begins to develop at an early age, and if it does not develop sufficiently, it causes increased bone loss with age (especially after 65). Calcium, which makes up the structure of bones, is gradually lost by the body, making bones more fragile. Bones that lose calcium become weak, easily breakable, and lose their structure. Wrist, hip, and spinal fractures are commonly seen in osteoporosis.

Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

In women, 90% of bone mass is formed by the age of 18. In women aged 50-75, the loss of estrogen due to natural menopause causes osteoporosis, especially if bone mass has not developed adequately at an early age.

Senile Osteoporosis

This type of osteoporosis occurs in people over 70 due to aging. The main causes are usually a decrease in vitamin D synthesis and calcium deficiency.

Juvenile (Youth and Adolescence) Osteoporosis

Unlike adults, this rare and unknown cause of osteoporosis is seen in children aged 8-14.

Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis progresses silently unless fractures occur due to the disease, making it hard to notice. Untreated osteoporosis increases pain in the bones and leads to a situation where the individual becomes dependent on others due to the fractures. Other symptoms of osteoporosis include body fractures, curvature of the spine, height loss, and back pain. If left untreated, osteoporosis can eventually lead to an inability to meet daily needs, causing dependence on others.

How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?

In individuals who do not undergo regular examinations, osteoporosis is typically noticed after body fractures due to a fall or complaints of back, muscle, or joint pain. After a doctor's examination, blood and urine tests, radiography, and bone density measurement are used for diagnosis. The method to be used for diagnosis is determined by the doctor. Bone density measurements should be updated and compared every 1.5-2 years. The treatment method and medications vary depending on the level of osteoporosis.

Causes and Risk Factors of Osteoporosis

Women have less bone tissue than men, and especially during menopause, the decrease in estrogen makes women more prone to osteoporosis. Although women are at higher risk, men are also at risk due to the decrease in testosterone. As age increases, bones lose density; osteoporosis is more common in individuals over 50. Physical activity increases bone mass. Sedentary lifestyles, low calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, and genetics are also factors that influence osteoporosis. Other risk factors for osteoporosis include:

• Smoking
• Excessive caffeine consumption
• Low body weight in old age
• Frequent falls
• Steroid (cortisone) treatment for more than three months
• Endocrine system diseases

Who is Affected by Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis affects individuals of all genders, age groups, and origins, but some groups are at higher risk. Individuals who are poorly nourished, have a sedentary lifestyle, and are older are more prone to osteoporosis. People over 65 are considered at risk even if they do not show symptoms. In addition to factors such as a family history of osteoporosis and inadequate calcium intake, physical characteristics such as fair skin, short stature, and light eye color can also increase the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, it is known that Asian women are more at risk than African women. Individuals with diabetes, thyroid disorders, or those who consume excessive alcohol are known to be more affected by osteoporosis worldwide.

How is Osteoporosis Treated?

Preventing osteoporosis is easier than treating it. To prevent osteoporosis, lifestyle changes should be made at a young age. If osteoporosis develops, lifestyle changes are necessary for treatment. Taking precautions to reduce falls, exercising under the guidance of a doctor and physiotherapist, making dietary changes, and regularly using prescribed medications are effective in preventing and treating osteoporosis. Medications are prescribed based on tests done by the doctor. If necessary, calcium and vitamin D supplements may be recommended. Activities such as dancing, tennis, light walking, yoga, and gardening can help slow bone loss and strengthen muscles.

Osteoporosis and Nutrition

One of the lifestyle changes that can be made for osteoporosis is improving diet. It is essential to ensure adequate calcium intake at all ages. Regular calcium intake in adults under 35 reduces the risk of osteoporosis. High-fat foods should not be preferred for calcium intake. Reducing salt, caffeine, and phosphate intake while increasing potassium and magnesium intake are changes that can help protect against osteoporosis. Consuming more than three cups of coffee a day is not recommended, as it increases calcium excretion due to caffeine intake. Dairy products, nuts, and leafy green vegetables are rich in calcium. Vitamin D, which is especially found in eggs, fatty fish, chicken, and red meat, is utilized when exposed to sunlight. The required amount of calcium and vitamin D may vary by age:

• Adults aged 19-50, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and men aged 51-70 need 1000 mg of calcium daily.
• Women aged 51-70 and all adults over 71 need more calcium, around 1200 mg.
• Vitamin D supplements should be started under a doctor's supervision during infancy. Babies aged 0-12 months need 400 IU of vitamin D.
• Children aged 1-9 need 600 IU of vitamin D. This continues at 800 IU for those aged 9-70.
• If the person is pregnant or breastfeeding, the required vitamin D is 600 IU.

How to Minimize the Risk of Falling?

One of the biggest risks caused by osteoporosis is the danger of falling. Measures should be taken to minimize this risk and maintain health. Exercises that increase muscle strength, balance, and coordination form the foundation of prevention. Individuals with balance problems or those at high risk of falling should use equipment such as a cane or walker. Adjustments in the home should be made to remove factors that may cause falls. Installing grab bars in bathrooms with slippery floors and using support while moving can reduce the risk of falling due to slipping. Slippery rugs and carpets should be removed, and the fall risk should be minimized.

Adopting a healthy diet and an active lifestyle starting from childhood, not just adulthood, can reduce the risk of osteoporosis in later years. Regardless of the cause, fractures caused by falls in osteoporosis should be prevented, as they worsen the progression of the disease. If there is a family history of osteoporosis or the individual is entering at-risk age groups, regular doctor check-ups should be conducted for early diagnosis, leading to a healthier life. If you think you are at risk of osteoporosis or are experiencing this condition, you should see a doctor as soon as possible and follow their recommendations.