Osteoporosis: The Silent Disease
4 Minutes Read
Osteoporosis is known as a "silent" disease because there are typically no symptoms
until there is a fracture. A fracture can lead to other serious
complications, including blood clots which can require immediate medical attention.
The idea that osteoporosis only affects the older population, is a misleading
thought. Osteoporosis can also affect young adults, including premenopausal
women in their 20s to 40s. However with early detection, the disease
can be better managed with diet and lifestyle modifications.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by reduced density and quality of the bones, which leads to decreased bone strength. As the bones are weaker and more brittle, there is a higher risk of fracture - even from minor injuries.
The more common osteoporosis related fractures are at the wrist, hip and spine areas. One way to diagnose osteoporosis is by doing a Bone Mass Density (BMD) test. This test, along with a blood test, can determine the amount of calcium and minerals in the bones as well as any Vitamin D deficiencies.
Are you at risk?
- Family history: If your parents has had a broken bone (especially a broken hip), or has a history of osteoporosis, then you could be at greater risk of osteoporosis
- Nutritional deficiency: Studies have shown that having diets low in calcium and Vitamin D can negatively affect bone health
- Alcohol and smoking: Frequent alcohol consumption and smoking decreases bone quality, which thins bone out and increases the chances of fracture
- Medications: Certain medications that treat autoimmune, pulmonary and gastrointestinal diseases, can negatively influence bone mass
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity decreases bone density which increases risk of fracture
Lack of physical activity can decrease bone density
Tips to maintain strong bones
If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, treatment emphasis should be on protecting and strengthening your bones.
1. Diet
A balanced diet of protein, calcium, Vitamin D, fruits, and vegetables are beneficial for strong bone health and optimal bone mass. Consume calcium rich foods such as dairy products, dark leafy greens, fish with edible bones and nuts such as almonds. The best way to get Vitamin D is from the morning or late afternoon sun. Vitamin D aids with calcium absorption.
2. Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
Studies have shown that consumption of alcohol and caffeine in large amounts decrease bone quality. It reduces the body’s ability to absorb calcium, hence leading to weaker bone structure. The recommended daily limit for women is up to 1 drink (330mls beer or 100mls wine) and for men up to 2 drinks. Do consider limiting your alcohol intake where necessary.
3. Exercise
Incorporating exercise into your lifestyle improves bone density. The most recommended form of exercises for osteoporosis are weight bearing exercises, such as walking, aerobics and dancing. Resistance exercises that involve use of elastic bands and dumbbells are also beneficial for osteoporosis.
Before embarking on your exercise regime, consult your physician or exercise professionals so they can assess and recommend activities safe for your condition.
4. Medication and supplements
If you are prescribed any medication or supplement to manage your osteoporosis, ensure to take them regularly. This can help control deterioration of the bones. An example of a benefitting and safe supplement that can be purchased at any supermarket is Anlene Gold. It is scientifically formulated to strengthen the bones.
In summary
As osteoporosis can be asymptomatic, timely diagnosis can help in formulating
treatment options and inhibiting disease development. Reach out to your doctor if
you suspect you may have osteoporosis or are concerned about living with a long term
condition.
Want to screen yourself or your family members? We provide
screening packages specially catered for osteoporosis and general health screening.
Osteoporosis Screen 1
- Ace ($70)
- Bone Mass Density ($42.80)
- Vitamin D Levels ($64.20)
- Add $42.80 for Ultrasound Stroke Scan
Osteoporosis Screen 2
- Elite ($120)
- Bone Mass Density ($42.80)
- Vitamin D Levels ($64.20)
- Add $42.80 for Ultrasound Stroke Scan
Osteoporosis Screen 3
- Noble ($208)
- Bone Mass Density ($42.80)
- Vitamin D Levels ($64.20)
- Add $42.80 for Ultrasound Stroke Scan
| Name | Package | Price* | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osteoporosis Screen 1 | Ace ($70) + Bone Mass Density ($42.80) + Vitamin D Levels ($64.20) | $177 |
WhatsApp Us
Book Now
|
| Osteoporosis Screen 2 | Elite ($120) + Bone Mass Density ($42.80) + Vitamin D Levels ($64.20) |
$227 Recommended |
WhatsApp Us
Book Now
|
| Osteoporosis Screen 3 | Noble ($208) + Bone Mass Density ($42.80) + Vitamin D Levels ($64.20) | $315 |
WhatsApp Us
Book Now
|
| Add $42.80 for an Ultrasound Stroke Scan with any of the above packages | |||
*Prices are subject to GST.
Need something more comprehensive? Do WhatsApp or
call our friendly concierge for assistance.