Osteoporosis

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) that leads to weakened bones and increased risk of fractures. It develops when bone resorption by cells called osteoclasts exceeds bone formation by osteoblasts.

Some key facts about osteoporosis:

• It often has no symptoms until a fracture occurs
• It affects approximately 10 million Americans
• It is more common in postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency
• Major risk factors include family history, smoking, low calcium intake, and lack of exercise

Diagnosis involves a bone mineral density test, such as a DXA scan, to measure BMD. The World Health Organization defines osteoporosis as a BMD score 2.5 standard deviations or more below the average.

To promote bone health and prevent osteoporosis, doctors recommend:

• Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake
• Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises
• Avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol
• Fall prevention
• Sometimes medication for high-risk individuals

If you're concerned about osteoporosis risk, the medical professionals at Harmony Hormone Therapy can assess your bone health and customize a treatment plan involving lifestyle changes, supplements if needed, and bioidentical hormone therapy to build stronger bones. Contact us today to learn more!

Early evaluation and proactive treatment are key, as osteoporosis-related fractures can be life-altering events. With proper bone health care, the weakening effects of this disease can be reduced or reversed.

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