Osteoporosis: Understanding This Condition Post-Menopause

"Osteoporosis is a common condition that affects postmenopausal women. The decline in female hormones and the natural aging process are the main causes of postmenopausal osteoporosis. This condition manifests as back pain, a stooped posture, and a decrease in height, among other symptoms. Read on as we delve into this debilitating condition and explore its impact and management."

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What Causes Osteoporosis in Menopausal Women?

Osteoporosis that occurs as a result of menopause typically manifests around five years after menopause. The rate of bone loss is approximately 2-4% per year during the first five to ten years following menopause.

There are two primary causes of osteoporosis in menopausal women:

– Estrogen Deficiency: Estrogen plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of bone cells. A lack of estrogen leads to reduced calcium absorption, decreased bone regeneration, and accelerated bone aging.

– Aging: Age-related osteoporosis is more common in women than in men. This is due to a decrease in the body’s ability to absorb calcium, as well as a reduction in osteoblast function.

Additionally, osteoporosis after menopause can be attributed to decreased parathyroid hormone secretion, increased calcium excretion by the kidneys, and reduced vitamin D3 effectiveness, resulting in impaired calcium absorption in the intestines.

For further reference: 11 , pre-menopause

Symptoms of Osteoporosis After Menopause

Back Pain: Women with osteoporosis often experience pain in the lumbar spine or lower back after strenuous activity or a fall. Movement may be accompanied by a cracking sound, and rest usually provides some relief from the pain.

Spinal Deformity: This symptom typically develops gradually, manifesting after several years. Spinal deformity can lead to a hunched back, collapsed vertebrae, and a decrease in height with advancing age (a height loss of 12 cm or more).

Bone Fractures: The most common sites for fractures due to osteoporosis are the femoral neck, proximal humerus, distal radius, and spine.

How to Prevent Osteoporosis After Menopause

Prevention of osteoporosis after menopause should begin as early as possible, even when you are still young:

– Adopt a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, especially calcium, to ensure adequate nutrient intake for strong bones and joints.

Milk is highly recommended for osteoporosis prevention. In particular, milk with added calcium and vitamin D3 can provide a higher amount of these nutrients compared to regular milk, helping to meet the body’s needs for bone development and protection.

– Combine a healthy diet with regular physical exercise: Maintain a consistent exercise routine and engage in activities that are comfortable for you, with a relaxed mindset.

Osteoporosis after menopause is a common condition among women. Therefore, it is crucial to implement preventive measures against this disease from a young age!

Reference: Dr. Tran Quang Nhat

Frequently asked questions

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to breaks. Post-menopause, women experience a rapid decline in estrogen, a hormone that helps maintain bone strength. This decrease in estrogen levels contributes to bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.

It is quite common, affecting approximately one-third of women over the age of 50. The risk increases with age, and it is estimated that half of all women over the age of 80 will suffer from an osteoporosis-related fracture.

Osteoporosis itself often shows no signs or symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, some possible indicators include back pain, loss of height over time, and a stooped posture.

Yes, there are preventive measures and treatments available. A healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercises, and a generally active lifestyle can help prevent bone loss. Treatments include hormone replacement therapy, medication to slow bone loss and increase bone strength, and in some cases, surgery.

Adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise routine is essential. Additionally, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help, as both habits negatively impact bone health. It is also crucial to maintain a healthy weight, as being underweight increases the risk of bone loss.
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