Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass - What Is the Difference and What Can I Do?
Do you know that building strong bones is a lifestyle commitment?The more you know about diet, exercise, and your family genes, the stronger your bones can become. Show
What is the difference between osteoporosis and low bone mass?
How is osteoporosis and low bone mass diagnosed?You cannot see or feel your bones thinning or growing weaker. Health care providers use a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test to evaluate if you have osteoporosis and bone density issues. The BMD test determines the calcium and phosphorus in your bones. The BMD test is recommended if:
BMD testing uses a low dose X-ray of the hip and spine. The X-ray is quick, painless and measures the density or thickness of your bones.BMD testing provides a T-score that compares your bone density to the average bone density of young healthy adults of same age and gender.
How can I have strong bones if I have low bone mass or osteoporosis?You can make lifestyle choices that promote strong bones at any age:
Are there medications and treatments for osteoporosis or low bone mass?
NYSOPEP Resource CenterHelen Hayes Hospital At what point does osteopenia become osteoporosis?A T score of -1 to -2.5 indicates osteopenia (low bone density). A T score of -2.5 or lower is bone density low enough to be categorized as osteoporosis.
What is the most common cause of osteopenia?Aging is the most common risk factor for osteopenia. After your bone mass peaks, your body breaks down old bone faster than it builds new bone. That means you lose some bone density. Women lose bone more quickly after menopause, due to lower estrogen levels.
What is best treatment for osteopenia?The main ones are calcium and vitamin D supplements. Most adults should get between 1,000 and 1,200 milligrams of calcium and 600 to 800 international units (IU) of vitamin D every day.
Can osteoporosis be reversed to osteopenia?The short answer is no, osteoporosis cannot be completely reversed and is not considered curable, but there are a number of health and lifestyle adjustments you can make to improve bone loss. Your provider may also prescribe you medications to help rebuild and slow down bone loss.
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