Osteoporosis is a silent disease in which bone gradually loses its density, becoming weaker and more prone to fracture — often without pain until the first injury occurs. Early screening is an essential step for prevention.
What Is Osteoporosis?
A condition in which bone density and quality decline, weakening its resistance and increasing the likelihood of fractures even from minor injuries. It develops silently, which is why it is called the "silent disease."
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
- Often no symptoms in the early stages
- Loss of height over time or a curved back
- Recurring back pain
- Fractures occurring more easily than usual, especially in the wrist, hip, or spine
Causes and Risk Factors
Older age; women after menopause in particular due to hormonal changes; calcium and vitamin D deficiency; physical inactivity; smoking; and certain long-term diseases or medications.
When to See a Doctor
If you are over fifty, have risk factors, have had a fracture from a minor injury, or have noticed a loss of height or a curved back, an evaluation and a bone-density scan are useful to detect the condition early.
Prevention and Treatment Options
Prevention begins with a calcium-rich diet, an appropriate source of vitamin D as advised by your doctor, and regular physical activity that strengthens bone. When osteoporosis is diagnosed, the doctor may set a plan that includes lifestyle changes and possibly medication depending on the case, aiming to strengthen bone and reduce fracture risk.
How Town Hospital Helps You
In the Orthopedics department at Town Hospital, your condition is assessed and a bone-density scan is performed when needed, then a suitable prevention or treatment plan is set and followed up, to keep your bones healthy before any fracture occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does osteoporosis have early symptoms?
Often not, which is why it is called the silent disease, and the first sign may be a fracture; that is why early screening matters.
Who is most at risk?
Older adults, women after menopause in particular, and those with calcium deficiency, inactivity, or a family history.
How can it be prevented?
With calcium, vitamin D, and regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, and screening when risk factors are present.
Can osteoporosis be treated?
It can be managed with a plan set by the doctor that includes lifestyle and possibly medication depending on the case to reduce fracture risk.
Book an appointment with the orthopedics team at Town Hospital — Fifth Settlement
📞 15276 | 🌐 www.townhospitaleg.com