Osteopenia causes thinning of the bones due to loss of bone mineral density. It is not as severe as in osteoporosis but can progress into it.

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Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become increasingly porous, losing density and causing them to be weak and brittle. It is the most common reason for fracture among the elderly.

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Osteoporosis becomes more common with age. 70% of people over the age of 80 are affected, and more women are affected than men. 5-7 years after menopause, many women will experience a sudden decline in bone density due to the decrease in estrogen production.

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Many times, osteoporosis is not diagnosed until a person suffers a fracture from minor stress such as bending over. The most common injuries due to osteoporosis include hip fracture, wrist fracture, and vertebrae fracture. Older adults who have a bent-over appearance or change in posture are most likely affected by osteoporosis in the vertebrae, which causes tiny fractures, changing the shape of the spine.

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People diagnosed with osteoporosis may be prescribed a bisphosphonate, like Actonel, Boniva, Fosamax, or Reclast. These bone-boosting drugs can reduce bone loss and may even build bone density.

Conditions

"Condition" is a general term for particular abnormal diseases that negatively affect a part or all of the body. Conditions are not due to any external injury. Therefore, a broken bone does not classify as a condition, whereas Herpes, OCD, Shingles, and Ulcers do.

Medical conditions are classified by specific symptoms and signs. While each person's experiences can vary, there are consistent signs and symptoms that doctors will look for when diagnosing their patients. We always recommend that people seek a professional diagnosis. Afterward, supplement medical advice and opinion with accurate and easy to read information.

Most people only spend an average of a couple minutes with their doctor during a checkup. Oftentimes patients don't receive the fullest explanation of their diagnosis. Easily search through the vast amount of articles that Facty Health offers for ones that address your specific needs. From there, allow us to help you with those unanswered questions.

10 Symptoms of Osteopenia

3. Major Fractures

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