Osteoporosis

• What is osteoporosis?


  Osteoporosis is low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to fragility and fractures.
• What happens to bones in osteoporosis?


  Bones lose calcium, phosphate, and the matrix breaks down.
• What symptom is commonly associated with osteoporosis?


  No obvious pain unless a bone fracture occurs.
• What can cause a bone fracture in someone with osteoporosis?


  A minor fall or sudden impact can cause a bone fracture.
• What unusual actions can lead to fractures in osteoporosis patients?


  Even a cough or sneeze can fracture a rib or cause a partial collapse of a vertebrae.
• What are the consequences of a partial collapse of a vertebra in osteoporosis?


  It can lead to curvature of the spine and loss of height.
• What biological change leads to osteoporosis?


  It is due to a loss of protein matrix from the bone resulting in a loss of bone density.
• How does aging affect bone density in women?

  Women lose bone rapidly in the first few years after menopause due to a drop in oestrogen.
• What role does oestrogen play in bone health?


  Oestrogen promotes bone formation.
• What happens to osteoblasts and osteoclasts after menopause?


  Osteoblasts reduce their activity while osteoclasts increase theirs.
• What is the result of the imbalance between osteoblasts and osteoclasts in osteoporosis?


  Bone is eroded at a faster rate than it is deposited, making bones more porous and weaker.
• What are the most common fractures associated with osteoporosis?


  The most common fractures are to the wrist, hip, and spinal vertebrae.
• What are the causes and risk factors for osteoporosis?


  • Normal bone loss with aging
  • Family history of osteoporosis or hip fractures
  • Heavy drinking/smoking
  • Eating disorders (bulimia/anorexia)
  • Long-term use of bone weakening medications
  • Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac or Crohn's disease, COPD, overactive thyroid
  • Women with hysterectomy, early menopause, or absent periods
  • Lifestyle factors (diet and exercise)
• What lifestyle factors can determine bone health?

  Diet and exercise can determine bone health.