EMC friends, have you ever heard of osteoporosis? This bone disease, often called the "silent disease," may not cause symptoms in its early stages. However, its impact can be significant, increasing the risk of fractures and impairing quality of life. To raise awareness about bone health, EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital is here to debunk the facts and myths surrounding osteoporosis.
Understanding More: What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bone density gradually decreases, making bones brittle and more susceptible to fracture. This process occurs due to an imbalance between new bone formation and old bone breakdown. As we age, bone breakdown tends to outpace new bone formation, resulting in reduced bone density.
Facts About Osteoporosis
- Osteoporosis Can Happen to Anyone: Although it's more common in postmenopausal women, men are also at risk. Age, family history, hormone deficiencies, low calcium and vitamin D intake, and an unhealthy lifestyle can increase the risk.
- Osteoporosis Often Shows No Early Symptoms: This is why osteoporosis is called a "silent disease." A person may not realize they have osteoporosis until they experience a fracture from a minor impact or even without an obvious cause.
- Osteoporosis-Related Bone Fractures Can Be Very Serious: A fracture of the hip, spine, or wrist due to osteoporosis can cause chronic pain, disability, and even increase the risk of death.
- Early Diagnosis is Crucial: Bone Mineral Density (BMD) testing , or bone densitometry, is a safe and effective way to measure bone density and diagnose osteoporosis before a fracture occurs.
- Osteoporosis Can Be Prevented and Managed: Although it cannot be completely cured, osteoporosis can be prevented and managed with lifestyle changes, adequate nutritional intake, regular exercise, and proper medication as recommended by a doctor.
Misconceptions About Osteoporosis
- Myth: Osteoporosis Only Affects Older Women.
- Fact: As mentioned, men and women of all age groups can develop osteoporosis, although the risk increases with age and in women after menopause.
- Myth: Osteoporosis Cannot Be Prevented.
- Fact: Osteoporosis prevention can start at a young age by ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, exercising regularly, and avoiding risk factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Myth: If There Are No Symptoms, There Is No Osteoporosis.
- Fact: The absence of symptoms doesn't mean you're free from osteoporosis. A BMD test is the only way to determine your bone density.
- Myth: Taking Calcium Supplements Is Enough to Prevent Osteoporosis.
- Fact: Calcium is important for bone health, but the body also needs vitamin D to aid calcium absorption. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise also play a crucial role in maintaining bone density.
- Myth: Osteoporosis is a normal part of the aging process and nothing to worry about.
- Fact: Although bone density tends to decrease with age, osteoporosis is not a normal condition and can be prevented and managed to reduce the risk of fractures and improve quality of life.
Don't Delay! Consult Your Bone Health at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital
Bone health is a long-term investment in your quality of life. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, experience chronic back pain, experience height loss, or have a history of fractures, don't hesitate to consult a specialist at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital.
Our experienced team of doctors will perform a comprehensive examination, including a BMD test if necessary, to evaluate your bone health and provide appropriate treatment. We will help you understand your bone condition, provide advice on osteoporosis prevention and management, and design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Let's work together to raise awareness about the importance of bone health and prevent the devastating effects of osteoporosis. Don't let this "silent disease" disrupt your quality of life. Consult your bone health at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital today for a healthier and more active future!
Article written by Dr. Kisli Setiawan, Sp.OT (Orthopedic & Traumatology Specialist at EMC Grha Kedoya Hospital).