5 health conditions that may cause bone loss
As one gets older, bone health becomes one of the top concerns. It is always advised that working on balance and stability exercises can be helpful for old age to prevent any falls which could lead to fractures. Some bone-specific conditions lead to fractures or collapses, but some other conditions lead to bone health complications. Herein, we look at these conditions to understand how to manage symptoms and treatment options.
Osteoporosis
This condition causes bone mass to slowly deteriorate and weaken to the point of breakage, especially in the wrist, spine, and hips. Osteoporosis usually onsets with age, and the doctor may do some tests to check the bone density levels, which can help diagnose osteoporosis.
Prolia or denosumab injections are treatment options advised for women after menopause and at high risk for fracture due to osteoporosis and for men who are at high risk for fracture. This option helps to increase the bone mass in the body. Hormone therapy is also helpful in maintaining bone density.
Osteopetrosis
This conditions the Opposite of osteoporosis, wherein the bones become denser. So much so that it gets so heavy that it may break at any moment. The bones become weaker and cannot take the body’s weight. This condition affects not only the bones but also the marrow. Bone marrow is essential in fighting off infections in our bodies, carrying oxygen, and controlling bleeding.
Treatment for osteopetrosis involves hormone therapy and product-based options. Some even suggest physical therapy can help deal with the symptoms. Surgery is normally considered when patients don’t seem to get better despite the options mentioned above.
Osteonecrosis
Avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis is a condition in which the bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. Due to this lack of supply, the bone develops tiny breaks and eventually collapses. This degradation of the bone takes months or years, so it is not easy to spot weak bones.
Treatment for osteonecrosis includes plenty of rest and exercise under supervision to ensure that the weight is not burdening the joints. Exercises are done to improve the range of motion. Electrical stimulation is also recommended, which means electrical currents are passed to the damaged area, which may help grow new bone.
Type 1 diabetes
Diabetes affects the sugar levels in the body, but studies suggest that those suffering from type 1 diabetes also tend to lose bone mass over time. Insulin that helps with sugar levels also helps in bone growth.
While treatments reverse type 1 diabetes, symptoms can be managed by eating the right foods, regularly monitoring blood sugar levels, and taking insulin. Regular exercise and being mindful of eating sufficient nutrients ensure a healthy waist-to-hip ratio.
Lupus
As lupus is an autoimmune disease, it can give rise to complications like osteoporosis, leading to fractures and collapsed bones in the body. In this disease, the body attacks itself, mistaking healthy cells for unhealthy ones.
Treatment for this autoimmune disease is administered for specific symptoms that show up during diagnosis. One can try alternative treatment options like homeopathy, chiropractor, bone strengthening supplements, and fish oil.