Decreased bone density

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, is a medical condition that causes the bones to become less dense and more porous. This leads to weaker and more fragile bones that are at higher risk for fractures.

Some key things to know about decreased bone density:

• It is often caused by hormonal changes, aging, genetics, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, or certain medications


• People may not have symptoms until a fracture occurs


• It can be prevented and treated through proper nutrition, weight-bearing exercise, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and sometimes medications

Symptoms

Some symptoms that may indicate decreased bone density include:

• Fractures or breaking a bone from a minor fall or injury


• Back pain caused by a fractured or collapsing vertebra


• Loss of height over time


• Stooped posture

If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor to get tested. A bone mineral density (BMD) test can confirm if you have decreased bone density.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk of developing decreased bone density include:

• Being female, especially post-menopause due to drop in estrogen


• Older age


• Family history of osteoporosis


• Low calcium and vitamin D intake


• Anorexia or bulimia


• Long-term medications like steroids or proton pump inhibitors

Making lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk if you have any of these risk factors.

Prevention and Treatment

The key ways to manage decreased bone density are through nutrition, exercise, and sometimes medication:

• Get enough calcium and vitamin D from foods or supplements to support bone health


• Do weight-bearing and resistance exercises like walking, jogging, and strength training 2-3 times a week


• Take bone strengthening medications like bisphosphonates if osteoporosis is diagnosed


• Quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol intake which can deplete bones


• Practice good posture and balance exercises to prevent falls and fractures

In addition to self-care, advanced treatments like vertebroplasty may be used to treat fractures. Getting a bone density test every 1-2 years checks progress.