InfoBarrel > Health > Diseases & Conditions

The Link Between Menopause and Osteoporosis

KimA |

0 Comments | Rating: 0 | |

Every woman ought to be concerned about osteoporosis, which can occur soon after menopause. Both menopause and osteoporosis have symptoms that affect your bones, however being proactive can prevent or reduce the damage.

Women are more vulnerable to bone loss, or osteoporosis, however it's a natural part of aging for both men and women. Bones in women age differently than they do in men, as women's bone density is less than that of men. By age forty, women are experiencing loss of bone mass. There is an acceleration period from five to seven years after onset of menopause, but then it returns to its normal age related rate. Although osteoporosis isn't considered to be one of the menopause symptoms, there is certainly a link between the two conditions.

Bone loss is more a result of aging than it is decreased estrogen levels. In reality, smoking, medications, and being underweight affect bone loss considerably. On top of loss of height and tiny fractures, menopause and osteoporosis can also cause hip fractures. To prevent bone loss, it is critical to eat a good diet, take vitamins, and exercise.

To determine how much bone you have lost, your doctor may advise that you take a bone density test. The first place that exhibits bone loss is usually the lumbar spine, and an X-ray scan can help measure the bone density of this area. You may not need a specific examination to identify osteoporosis if you have been losing height each year. If you do decide to take the test, it should be done once you have begun perimenopause or are in full menopause.

If the test shows that you have very little bone loss, you may opt to do nothing. However, it is still vital to maintain strong bones and as a result you should be tested to track any possible bone loss. On the other hand, if you're told that your rate of bone loss is too high, you may desire to take a proactive approach to avoid the issues pertaining to menopause and osteoporosis.

The best means to maintain the strength of your bones is a blend of lifestyle changes and dietary measures. Avoidance of alcohol and smoking is very useful, as are having healthy eating habits and getting adequate exercise. You ought to also take care to avoid falling.

Most women are concerned about menopause and osteoporosis. Fortunately, however, there are steps you can take to help you prevent or stop the progression of osteoporosis, and also get menopause relief.