Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by bone deterioration, brittleness, and fragility because of low bone density and loss of bone tissue. If you have been diagnosed with this condition, it is imperative that you make lifestyle changes to slow down its progression and prevent fractures. You may be required to take certain medications for bone strength. Also, you may need vitamin D and calcium supplements if your diet does not give you enough of these. If you suffer from vertebral compression fracture due to osteoporosis, you may be a candidate for surgeries like vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. Keep reading to find out more about how you can live with and manage osteoporosis:
Getting Treatment
Some drugs such as antiresorptive medications can slow bone breakdown. They include hormone therapy and bisphosphonates. Your doctor may also prescribe anabolic medications to promote bone formation. You can discuss with your doctor how to best approach your condition based on your estimated fracture risk, bone mineral density, other medical conditions, and lifestyle.
Making Lifestyle Changes
If you are suffering from osteoporosis, you may need to make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, minimizing your alcohol consumption, and consuming a healthy diet with lots of calcium-rich foods like dairy products. Also, it is important to perform a weight-bearing exercise for at least thirty minutes every day. Getting some sun every day can also boost your vitamin D level.
Although a range of nutrients can help strengthen your hones, calcium and vitamin D are particularly essential. A lack of sufficient calcium levels in the body can contribute to osteoporosis. Studies reveal that low calcium intake is associated with low bone mass, high fracture rates, and rapid bone loss.
Meanwhile, vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium from food and supplements. It helps the muscles in your body move since it is required by your nerves to carry messages from the body to the brain. Also, vitamin D is important for your immune system to fight against viruses and bacteria. Although you can naturally get vitamin D from the sunlight, you can also get it from food sources such as egg yolks, liver, and saltwater fish.
Preventing Falls
If you have osteoporosis, you must minimize your risk of falls. A fracture can lead to another fracture. To prevent a fall, have your medicines reviewed by your doctor because some of them can make you drowsy or dizzy. Also, it may be important to have your eyesight checked, so you do not trip over or bump into objects. Other tips include avoiding high heels, using a walking stick if you tend to walk unsteadily, or using hip protectors.
You can have an occupational therapist evaluate your home to know the changes that must be made to prevent a fall. Always keep your house well-lit and get rid of any loose wires and cords you may trip over, especially if you are a senior citizen.
Getting Support
You may be able to get reassurance from your doctor. Also, consider talking to a counselor or psychologist or anyone at a specialist helpline. It may help you manage your condition when you can speak with others who also suffer from osteoporosis.