Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by a lack of bone density which affects women in particular when they reach old age. Symptoms of osteoporosis can be ostensibly visible particularly with there usually being a deterioration in a person's vertebral support. As the person's spine decreases in bone density leading to spinal curvature, a person can appear more hunched over. The resulting weakened bones caused by osteoporosis can also leave sufferers more vulnerable to bone fractures.
Since diagnosis of osteoporosis is not usually made until there is a noticeable physical hunching or if a person suffers a number of broken bones, it is important to take a "Bone Mineral Density" test to ascertain the presence of weakened bones. Specialized osteoporosis machinery is utilized to analyze bone density. A bone mineral density test measures the density of your bones (bone mass) and is necessary to determine whether you need medication to help maintain your bone mass, prevent further bone loss and reduce fracture risk. A bone mineral density (BMD) test is a relatively simple test that is accurate, painless and non-invasive.
As with most diseases, prevention is the ideal way to combat osteoporosis. Some measures people can take to prevent this disease include being mindful of one's diet. A sufficient intake of calcium helps in growing and maintaining healthy bones. Calcium supplements may be required if a person is not getting their recommended daily dosage of about 1000mg of calcium. A sufficient intake of Vitamin D is also handy to help prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin D facilitates the process of calcium absorption in the body. Without enough of this vitamin, the body will absorb calcium from the bones instead.
A regular exercise routine is beneficial to bone health as well as one's overall fitness. People who engage in regular exercise during their childhood, adolescent and early adult years are most likely to reach maximum bone density than inactive people. The types of exercise most beneficial are the weight-bearing ones such as hiking, dancing, jogging and any sports requiring you to be on your feet.
Although there is no cure for this disease yet, there are certain osteoporosis medications available. Currently, the class of osteoporosis drugs known as bisphosphonates (risedronate, ibandronate and alendronate,), calcitonin, estrogens, parathyroid hormone and raloxifene are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention and/or treatment of osteoporosis.