About 50% of women and 25% of men in the United States will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. At San Antonio Premier Internal Medicine, with three offices in San Antonio, Texas, the experienced medical providers offer attentive care to help you prevent osteoporosis and its damaging results. Book your appointment online or call the office nearest you to schedule an exam now.
Osteoporosis is a disease of bone-thinning. This disease causes a significant weakening of your bones and increases your risk of bone fractures. Osteoporosis is prevalent in post-menopausal women, but it can affect anyone.
Bone loss accelerates as you age, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop osteoporosis. While it’s normal to experience a decrease in bone density as you age, several factors can influence how fast it happens, including:
Controllable factors can also contribute to your osteoporosis risk. For example, vitamin D and calcium deficiencies increase your risk of osteoporosis, but you can control your diet.
People who lead a sedentary lifestyle are more likely to develop osteoporosis, but exercising can help lower that risk. You can also avoid smoking and drinking excessively to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is generally a “silent” disease, which means it doesn’t typically cause symptoms. Many people find out that they have osteoporosis only after they experience a painful bone fracture.
If you have osteoporosis, you may notice you’re gradually getting shorter. Some people with late-stage osteoporosis develop a stooped posture.
Osteoporosis diagnosis requires a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, a specialized type of X-ray that shows the density of your bones.
All women need a DEXA scan at 65 and men at 70. If you have osteoporosis risk factors, you may need a DEXA scan at least five years earlier.
Your osteoporosis treatment plan depends on your specific bone density and individual risk factors. You may need:
Osteoporosis treatment usually involves both lifestyle changes and medication. Your San Antonio Premier Internal Medicine provider can recommend the ideal plan for your needs.
Osteoporosis is a preventable condition, and there are now excellent management options available, too. Book your appointment by calling San Antonio Premier Internal Medicine or clicking the provided online booking tool.