Osteoporosis is one of the women’s health issues our Round Rock OBGYN team proactively addresses
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bones to become weak, brittle and fragile, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Due to the serious consequences that can occur with osteoporosis, our Round Rock OBGYN team encourages women to learn as much as possible about the condition and to be screened at the appropriate time.
Women have a much higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Osteoporosis occurs five times more often in women than in men.” Women are at a higher risk for this condition because their bones are usually thinner and smaller than men’s bones. In addition, when women go through menopause, their levels of estrogen, a hormone which protects their bones, decrease markedly. Aging also causes bones to weaken and diminish.
There are other factors besides age that put a woman at risk for osteoporosis; in fact, our Round Rock OBGYN group wants women to be aware that osteoporosis can occur at any age. Be aware of the risk factors.
- Being Caucasian or Asian
- Small stature or low body weight (127 pounds or fewer)
- Family history
- Certain medical conditions–lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, anorexia nervosa
- Long-term use of certain medications—glucocorticoids, gonadotoprins, antacids with aluminum, certain cancer medications
- too little calcium or Vitamin D
- Too much Vitamin A
- Lack of exercise
- Drinking alcohol in excess (3 or more drinks/day)
Symptoms and warning signs
Unfortunately, osteoporosis may develop for years without any symptoms; however, there are warning signs and symptoms your Round Rock OBGYN will point out.
- Changes in posture—hunching, sloping shoulders or a protruding abdome
- Loss of height
- Noticeable curvature of the spine
- Back pain
- Fractured vertebrae or breaks in the wrists or hips
Prevention is possible with proper care
There is good news about osteoporosis. Women can prevent the condition when they adopt certain habits.
- Talk to your Round Rock OBGYN about calcium and vitamin D supplements.
- Include calcium-rich foods in your diet—dairy products, spinach, beans, fish and greens.
- Quit smoking.
- Keep alcohol consumption to 2 drinks or fewer per day.
- Do weight-bearing exercise—walk, run, hike, weight train.
Our Round Rock OBGYN group provides testing and treatment for osteoporosis
We recommend that all women age 65 and over have a bone mineral density test. Women who are past the age of menopause and/or women with increased risk factors may also need the test earlier than 65.
We care about your health for a lifetime. Contact us to learn more about osteoporosis.