Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, occurs when the struts and plates that make up bone tissue become thinner and the spaces between them grow wider. This causes the bones to become less dense and more porous.
Some key points about decreased bone density:
- It often develops without symptoms, so many people don't know they have it until they break a bone or get a bone density test.
- Decreased density makes bones more susceptible to fractures and breaks. These happen most often in the hip, spine and wrist.
- It happens to both men and women, but is more common in older postmenopausal women due to estrogen level changes.
- Major risk factors include aging, family history, smoking, low calicum/vitamin D intake, and inactive lifestyle.
Diagnosing decreased bone density:
Doctors can detect decreased bone density and check your risk of osteoporosis by using a:
- DEXA scan - This special X-ray precisely measures bone mineral density in spine and hip.
- Blood and urine tests - To check for issues causing bone loss like low vitamin D.
Treating decreased bone density:
If detected early, decreased bone density can often be improved with lifestyle changes like:
- Doing weight-bearing exercises 2-3x a week.
- Getting enough calcium and vitamin D daily.
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol.
- Medications like bisphosphonates or hormone therapy.
The specialists at
Optimal Hormone Health Center can provide customized osteoporosis treatment plans involving diet, exercise, and medication guidance tailored to your unique health profile. Their holistic approaches help both men and women prevent fractures through early detection and bone density improvement. I highly recommend them if you are concerned about low bone density.
I hope this overview on decreased bone density and osteoporosis gives you a good understanding of what to look for and how it can be managed with the right medical care. Let me know if you have any other questions!