It is one of the prominent diseases of this century, which has a lot to do with incorrect lifestyle and improper nutrition. This disease is more common in women, especially after menopause and following hormonal changes. Of course, bone density decreases naturally with age, but if If this reduction is more than normal, the person should be treated. Lifestyle has a significant impact on the appearance of this disease. For example, lack of physical activity, especially the types that are accompanied by weight bearing exercise, smoking, lack of consumption of dairy products and calcium-rich sources, lack of vitamin D, long-term use of certain drugs such as coronet, etc.
Various other causes and factors are also effective in the occurrence of this disease, which we have no role in correcting. Such as genetics, early menopause and light skin.
Importance: Due to the reduction of bone density and the so-called thinning of the bone, the person is exposed to dangerous fractures in the spine, organs, and especially the pelvis, which may cause the person to fall to the ground and cause physical and mental consequences for the person and dependents.
Symptoms: Osteoporosis does not have a clear sign like what we see in other diseases. Of course, scattered and non-specific pains in the limbs or spine may be one of its symptoms.
Diagnosis:It is given based on a special test that is designed for this disease and is actually a kind of radiological imaging (Dual x-ray absorptiometry). This test is based on comparing the density obtained from the said test and comparing it with the average of young age groups. It is recommended that women perform this test at least once after menopause, and it is not recommended to perform this test after an interval of less than two years for those who are undergoing treatment for follow-up.
Based on the results of the bone density test, patients are classified into three groups:1. The normal range that is not considered sick by nature.
2. In this group, a decrease in bone density has occurred, but not so much that it enters the range of osteoporosis. (osteopnea)
3. Osteoporosis
Treatment: Different drugs may be used according to the patient's condition.
1. Bisphosphonates: may be prescribed at the doctor's discretion. The effects of these drugs appear in the long term, so they should be used in the long term (between 2 and 5 years). Reducing the progressive loss of bone tissue and reducing the risk of fracture are among the effects of these drugs. Among these drugs are alendronate and vatidronate.
2. Different groups of drugs may be prescribed according to the patient's condition, such as: raloxifene, parathyroid hormone, calcitonin.
3. Of course, taking calcium and vitamin D supplements should not be missed.
What foods should we not eat?Some drugs reduce the absorption of calcium, such as salty foods, and excessive consumption of caffeine can have a negative effect on calcium absorption, as well as excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Author: Dr. Hossein Arjamand