Symptoms of Osteoporosis: The Silent Disease
Osteoporosis is often called the silent disease because few people experience symptoms until the disease is advanced. Many people may have no symptoms of osteoporosis at all until they suffer a fractured hip or spine after a simple fall. Because of this, doctors typically recommend anyone at risk of developing this disease to have diagnostic assessments done periodically.
A diagnostic assessment for osteoporosis usually includes a bone scan, which measures the density of bones. Osteoporosis is characterized by bone density loss, and leads to abnormally porous bone that is fragile and vulnerable to fracture. A bone scan, or bone density test, is often effective at diagnosing a reduction in bone density before symptoms develop.
Being aware of the risk factors and symptoms of osteoporosis will enable you to take early measures to increase bone density before bone loss becomes severe. In addition to routine diagnostic tests, watching for the earliest signs and symptoms of osteoporosis can prevent the condition from becoming severe enough to lead to bone fractures. The earlier you begin treatment - the better your chances of repairing your bones.
Early Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis can be present for many years without causing noticeable symptoms, but many people diagnosed with this condition do experience mild symptoms that could have led to an earlier diagnosis. Chronic back pain can be an early symptom of osteoporosis of the spine, and usually occurs in the lower back. Women may also experience muscle spasms during periods of inactivity, which is caused by the spontaneous collapse of small sections of the spine.
Other symptoms of osteoporosis include loss of height, leg cramps at night, neck pain, abdominal pain, tooth loss, fatigue, and brittle fingernails. Later in the course of the illness, spinal deformities such as a stooped posture may occur. The symptoms of osteoporosis often overlap the symptoms of other diseases, including arthritis, so it is wise to consult a specialist for a full evaluation.
Prevention of osteoporosis is the only way to ensure optimum bone strength and health, but an early diagnosis can prevent the disease from becoming severe and limiting your mobility. All post-menopausal women should speak with their health care provider about taking a daily calcium supplement to protect against the development of osteoporosis. If you experience any symptoms of osteoporosis, consult your doctor as soon as possible. Dietary changes, calcium supplementation, and weight-bearing exercise can improve your bone density and allow you to lead a full and active life.
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Osteoporosis can be a difficult disease to diagnose in its early stages, as frequently there are few osteoporosis symptoms until the disease has significantly advanced. Osteoporosis affects the bones in your body by thinning them and lessening their density, leaving them pock-marked with tiny holes, and making them more prone to breakage. Many osteoporosis sufferers first discover they have the disease when they break a hip or wrist without suffering a major fall.
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