Bones
There are a few causes of osteoporosis, some of them are preventable, some of them are not. If you (like many other people) are unfamiliar with the preventative measures that need to be taken to fend off osteoporosis, then there is a chance that you are at risk. Early detection of this disease is very important. It can save you a whole lot of pain and it may be possible to make your bones healthier before any serious damage is done. Regardless of your ethnicity, gender, or age, you should be aware of how to know if you have osteoporosis. Read on to find out more.
1. Balance and falling – This will be the first sign of osteoporosis. Somebody that has this disease will have bones that are losing density, and they are not reshaping the way the bones normally do. When this happens, the bones will be in a different shape than what the body needs to move properly, which is then responsible for balance issues. Sufferers of osteoporosis will find it very difficult to balance themselves and will find that they are falling more than usual. The falling can then lead to even worse problems.
2. Frequent bone fractures – These are those even worse problems that falling can lead to. Because of the decreased density of the bones, they fracture more easily. If bones are fracturing from things that normally should not have that effect, then you might have osteoporosis. The most common bones to fracture are the ones that are impacted by a fall. Wrists usually fracture from trying to break a fall, as well as a hip that takes a lot of the impact.
3. Going to a doctor – This is going to be the best, or actually the only way to tell if you have osteoporosis, anything else is just speculation. A doctor visit will provide you with your bone density results, which will give you a good idea about whether you have the disease or not. It is recommended that all women be tested for osteoporosis at the age of sixty-five and onward, but if you have any worries, speak with your physician. They will be able to tell you if you have anything to worry about, any diet or lifestyle changes you need to make, or prescribe any medications you may need. Also, if it looks as though you may be at risk of having osteoporosis in the future, your physician may recommend that you take calcium supplements.
Even though you need to go to a doctor to find out whether you actually have this disease or not, loss of balance and frequent falling is a very good reason to get checked out. You do not want to wait until your bones have completely degenerated before you find out if you can help your situation. There are steps you can take to prevent or slow down osteoporosis, so be aware.