THE WEEK'S CONSULTATION

Dear Sun Doc

What is osteoporosis? What of bone fractures due to calcium deficiency? Ray

Dear Ray

Calcium helps to build strong bones. In addition, bones are living tissue, constantly breaking down and being replaced, and calcium helps with this maintenance. When calcium levels are low, the bones have low density and are weaker. Therefore, they break or fracture easily. Osteoporosis refers to having very weak bones because the rate of breaking down is faster than replacement.

The rate of replacing a new bone starts slowing down in our 20s and we start losing bone mass at age 30. Those with a higher bone mass in their youth lose it slower than those who do not. When the bones are very weak, it is easy to fracture them even from mild stresses. You can also develop back pain and other bone pain, become shorter and bend while walking. There is a higher risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, if you have a family history of osteoporosis, have a small body size, due to some hormonal disorders, liver or kidney disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, low calcium intake, long term use of medication for seizures, gastroesophageal reflux, cancer treatment and long term use of steroids. You are also at higher risk if you lead a sedentary lifestyle, if you take excessive alcohol, and due to tobacco use.

To diagnose osteoporosis, an X-ray or a bone density scan is done. Some medication strengthen the weak bones and prevent further weakening.

To prevent osteoporosis or strengthen weak bones, consume adequate calcium and vitamin D, exercise (balance, weight bearing and strength training exercises), maintain a healthy weight (both being underweight and overweight are not advisable), stop smoking and take alcohol in moderation.