International Osteoporosis Day: What you need to know about the disease
Osteoporosis has no symptoms, so you might be suffering from it without your knowledge. Here is what you need to know about the disease.
October 20 marks International Osteoporosis Day. The disease affects approximately 500-million people around the world.
The Osteoporosis Foundation says one in three women and one in five men aged over 50 will sustain an osteoporotic fracture.
Osteoporosis can lead to painful fractures, disability, and early death.
Let us learn more about this health condition below:
What is osteoporosis?
It is a bone disease. The sickness weakens the bones and makes them fragile and more likely to break.
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Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak and may break from a fall or, in serious cases, from sneezing or minor bumps.
Symptoms
Osteoporosis is described as a silent killer.
The Osteoporosis Foundation states: "The disease has no obvious symptoms, so many people don’t know they have osteoporosis until they suffer a fracture."
However, in a case where you find that your spine is curving or you are experiencing height loss, the Osteoporosis Foundation says that might be an indication that you are suffering from the disease.
Prevention
- Eat healthy. Experts recommend eating a balanced diet and food that are packed with calcium and Vitamin D to promote bone health.
- Exercise. The foundation recommends a minimum of 30-40 minutes of physical activity, two to three times a week. This will help strengthen your bones.
- Maintain a healthy body weight. Osteoporosis Foundation warns against being underweight as it can pose as a threat to your bone health.
- Get rid of unhealthy habits such as excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
Treatment
If you suspect that you have osteoporosis, speak to your health advisor who will give you the best treatment based on your needs. He or she might recommend lifestyle changes and medication.
Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.
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