Osteoporosis is a medical condition that causes the bones to weaken and become brittle. The patient’s bones become so weak that even the simple act of bending over may lead to a fracture. What makes osteoporosis particularly dangerous is that there are no early symptoms. People suffering from the condition don’t know they have it until their bones have been weakened by osteoporosis and they start fracturing bones.
However, there are some signs that you are at risk of osteoporosis. If you notice any of the following, you need to visit a doctor for consultation.
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Osteopenia
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This refers to a condition where a person’s bone density is lower than average, but not low enough to be osteoporosis. Some people live their entire lives with this condition without ever suffering from osteoporosis, so it’s not definitive. However, if the patient starts losing bone, they are more susceptible to fractures since they don’t have a lot of bone in the first place.
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Weak bones
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Bone fractures from harmless falls are the earliest signs of osteoporosis. This may mean that the bone is weakening and will continue to do so. The best thing to do at this point is to undergo a bone density test. The result of the test will determine if the patient should be more careful or start treatment for osteoporosis.
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Family history of osteoporosis
If a close relative has osteoporosis, then you may also develop the condition. Like (a) above though, this is not a definitive sign; most people with a genetic predisposition end up never having osteoporosis.
If you think you may have osteoporosis, early diagnosis can help you get a handle on the condition quickly, thereby improving your bone health and quality of life. If you live close to Texas, visit the Internal Medicine Diagnostic Center in Magnolia, and get tested. Call 281-252-8600 now to make an appointment.