What is decreased bone density?
Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a condition where the bones become weaker and have lower density than normal. This happens when bone resorption outpaces bone formation.
There are a few key things to understand about decreased bone density:
- Causes - Decreased estrogen levels during menopause for women and low testosterone levels in men can lead to decreased bone density. Other causes include aging, genetics, lack of certain nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and long-term use of certain medications like corticosteroids.
- Risk factors - Advanced age, female sex, family history of osteoporosis, being underweight, inflammatory conditions, and certain lifestyle factors increase the chances of developing decreased bone density.
- Symptoms - Most people do not experience any obvious symptoms in the early stages. Later on, symptoms like back pain, fractured or broken bones, loss of height, and stooped posture may show up as bones become weaker.
- Diagnosis - Decreased bone density is diagnosed using a bone mineral density (BMD) test, which uses X-rays to measure bone density in various parts of the skeleton. The results determine if one has normal bone density, low bone density (osteopenia) or osteoporosis based on World Health Organization definitions.
- Complications - People with decreased bone density are more prone to fractures, especially of the hip, spine, and wrist. These broken bones may occur from a minor fall or even from sneezing or minor bumps. The fractures can lead to chronic pain, disability, loss of independence, and decreased quality of life.
- Treatment - Treatment focuses on preventing further bone loss and fractures. It includes weight-bearing exercise, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, not smoking, medication like bisphosphonates or denosumab, and fall prevention. Estrogen therapy may help some women.
In summary, decreased bone density makes the bones porous and fragile. It is often a silent disease until complications like painful fractures happen. Getting a BMD test done, especially if at higher risk, and addressing any nutritional deficiencies or lifestyle factors can help maintain stronger bones as you age. Leading an active, healthy lifestyle goes a long way in keeping osteoporosis at bay.