Osteoporosis is a form of arthritis in which the bones experience excessive calcium loss, resulting in decreased bone density. Loss of calcium and reduced bone density can result in brittle bones and fractures. Women are more prone to developing osteoporosis. They become much more prone to developing the condition after the age of 40, after the onset of menopause. After menopause, women begin to produce less estrogen. Estrogen is instrumental in helping the bones stay strong because it helps retain calcium. Many women must supplement their calcium intake to ensure that they retain their bone density. Men too may be affected by osteoporosis, but the number of affected men in the United States is much lower than the number of women who are affected. This is partly due to the fact that men generally have more bone mass than women. However, the normal aging process can cause osteoporosis to develop in both women and men. Osteoporosis also tends to affect individuals with decreased muscular activity. Although it remains one of the most common forms of arthritis in the United States, increased education and public attention about this condition has helped raise awareness about the importance of prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Like many conditions, prevention is the key to keeping osteoporosis at bay. If you know that you are at risk for osteoporosis, consider consuming a high calcium diet. Most health professionals recommend a diet that includes 1500 mg of calcium each day. Sometimes Vitamin D may be necessary in order to absorb the calcium. Foods that are rich in calcium include milk and dairy products, and fish such as salmon and sardines. Speak with your doctor about supplementing your diet with calcium and possible vitamin D. Vitamin D can also be absorbed naturally simply by spending more time in the sun. You may be able to take just one multivitamin to fulfill your calcium and vitamin D needs.

For many women who have already been diagnosed with osteoporosis, one viable treatment option is estrogen treatment. Estrogen replacement therapy can reduce women’s risk for developing osteoporosis. This form of therapy can help increase bone mass and density in the spine and hips. However, some women have experienced side effects from the use of estrogen replacement therapy. Also, some studies have made a connection between estrogen replacement therapy and an increased risk of breast cancer. However, estrogen has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart failure and attacks.

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Know about Osteoporosis and Treatments