by Rachelle de Bretagne

Created on: March 14, 2008   Last Updated: April 24, 2008

Osteoporosis is an illness that affects both men and women, though is more common to women reaching the age of menopause. Loss of density of the bone mass structure and calcification of areas of bone takes place, making the bone structure weak and prone to fracture easily, meaning that care for the disease is essential for the safety of the patient.

Referred to an X-Ray clinic, the investigation of whether a patient is suffering from Osteoporosis is performed by a non invasive measurement of the density of the bones in a given area. This can happen at any age, although as stated, is more common after the age of 40 when bone growth has reached it's peak.

Many factors come into play in the onset of Osteoporosis and among these the following:

*Lack of Vitamin D
*Hormone deficiency
*Hormone excess
*Digestive performance deficiencies
*Bone marrow issues

Recognizing those vulnerable to the disease is difficult before the age of 40 although blood tests for calcium levels can be an indication that diet needs adjusting. Smokers and those who have a family background of Osteoporosis should take preventative measures early, since leaving the disease undetected risks the efficiency of treatment.

Treatments

A common treatment for Osteoporosis in women is Evista which is taken in conjunction with Calcium and Vitamin D. The patient is also requested to walk every day, as this motion is desirable for the fixation of calcium to the bones and helps the body to get stronger.

This is not a short term treatment and not every patient is suited to the drug. Only by discussing with their physician will a patient understand the significance of the suitability, based on their own past history and that of their family.

In the case of men, often Dilantin treatment is used because it is known to decrease the absorption of calcium by the intestines, giving it a better chance to fix to bones, and again this is taken in conjunction with Calcium and Vitamin D, and the patient is encouraged to walk twice a day up to 20 minutes to help the calcium fix to the bones.

Other treatments available for Osteoporosis include Fosamax. Studies showed this to be more efficient at rebuilding bone structure that Actinel, though a very precise dosage and precautions should be employed by the patient, and side effects reported to the physician.

Overall the treatment of Osteoporosis has come a long way, though treatment is long term. When you consider that it may take 40 years for the bone density to start to diminish, there are no quick solutions.

Pain can be lessened by walking and regular treatment, changes in diet to reflect the body's needs, and regular check-ups to measure the levels of Calcium and Vitamin D to observe the efficiency of treatment.

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