Osteoporosis Bone

Most people do not realize that they have osteoporosis. There are no symptoms. Most people don't know that they have it until they break a bone. The best way to check your bone health is with a bone mineral density test. A bone mineral density test is completely painless and should be part of every person's regular physical examinations every year if they are 50 years of age or older.

Eating a diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise, and not smoking can help to keep bones strong. There are medicines that can also help restore bone density if they are needed. But, like all prescription medications, these medicines have side effects.

Osteoporosis is common — all too common. About 10 million Americans have been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Of that 10 million, about 80% of those who suffer from osteoporosis are women over the age of 50. There are millions and millions more Americans who have low bone density (called osteopenia) and who will very likely develop osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is called "The Silent Disease" because there are no symptoms associated with the problem.

Some of the specialists who treat osteoporosis are endocrinologists, rheumatologists, geriatricians, and internists, but family practitioners also treat it. All doctors treat osteoporosis with the goal of preventing fractures. They recommend a balanced diet that is rich in calcium, adequate vitamin D, a regular exercise program, and usually a calcium supplement, as well.

There are several different medications that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat osteoporosis. But all medications have side effects, so it is important to talk to your doctor about which medication is right for you.

Research into preventing and treating osteoporosis is ongoing. Research is currently underway to identify new treatments for osteoporosis, and studies are being conducted to find new ways to achieve the best possible bone health.