ASK THE DOCTOR               

Dr. Rimantas Kazakezicius, M.D., board certified in family practice St. Joseph's Mercy Health Center

What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the amount of calcium present in the bones slowly decreases, causing the bones to become brittle and prone to fracture. It commonly leads to fractures of the spine, hip and wrist. Most of the time, a person will sustain a fracture before becoming aware that the disease is present.

What are the causes?
There are many causes, but hormone deficiency is the leading culprit. Women over the age of 60 are the most frequent sufferers. Other causes include increasing age; a thin, small-framed body; early menopause; a lack of calcium; race (Caucasians and Asians are at the highest risk), and a lack of physical activity. Some diseases carry an increased risk such as adrenal disease, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis and thyrotoxicosis. Some drugs also carry an increased risk such as anticonvulsant, cytotoxic drugs, gluco-corticisteroids and adrenocorticotropin and Lithium.

What are the symptoms?

• Fractures of the vertebrae, wrists or hips
• Low back pain
• Neck pain
• Bone pain or tenderness
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped Posture
• Most often, there are no symptoms. That is why you should consult your family physician.

• How can I prevent osteoporosis?
• Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
• Engage in some type of weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, stair climbing or dancing.
• Post-menopausal women may consider estrogen replacement therapy
• Don't smoke or excessively use alcohol.

You should discuss with your healthcare provider these measures and other lifestyle changes that will help with prevention.