Women lose bone as they grow older. You need to take much more care of your bones than men as women have smaller bones than men. Women lose bone faster than men do because of hormonal changes that occur during the menopause transition and after menopause. Over time bone loss can lead to osteoporosis which makes your bones fragile and more likely to break. Yet, you might not know you have it until you break a bone. The first sign is usually a fracture that occurs after your bones have already become fragile. The most serious consequence of osteoporosis, can result in permanent disability and even death.
Osteoporosis causes no specific pain or symptoms.
- Family history of osteoporosis (mother, sister or grandmother)
- Inadequate amounts of dietary calcium
- Low vitamin D levels
- Cigarette smoking
- Alcohol intake of more than two standard drinks per day
- Caffeine intake of more than three cups of tea, coffee or equivalent per day
- Lack of physical activity
- Early menopause before the age of 45
- Long-term use of medications such as corticosteroids for rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.
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The most reliable way to diagnose osteoporosis is to measure bone density using a DEXA scan. This is done with x-ray technology that involves minimal radiation, is accurate and can be used to follow up treatment.
Ultrasound tests are available at many pharmacies and involve an ultrasound measurement of the heel. These tests are not as accurate in assessing for osteoporosis as a DEXA study and are not recommended by doctors.
