Scribd
Upload
214 views

OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become brittle and susceptible to fractures from minor impacts or normal daily activities. It results from an imbalance between bone formation and resorption that causes loss of bone density over time. Risk factors include older age, female gender, family history, low body weight, and medications. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes, calcium/vitamin D supplements, bisphosphonates, and hormone therapy to slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk.

Uploaded by

Henry Kaweesa
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
214 views

OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become brittle and susceptible to fractures from minor impacts or normal daily activities. It results from an imbalance between bone formation and resorption that causes loss of bone density over time. Risk factors include older age, female gender, family history, low body weight, and medications. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes, calcium/vitamin D supplements, bisphosphonates, and hormone therapy to slow bone loss and reduce fracture risk.

Uploaded by

Henry Kaweesa
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by the weakening of bones, leading to

increased fragility and a higher risk of fractures. Here's an overview:

Definition: Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease characterized by low bone mass and a

deterioration of bone tissue. This results in bones becoming porous, brittle, and more

susceptible to fractures, especially in response to minor trauma or even normal daily

activities.

Causes: The primary cause of osteoporosis is an imbalance between the formation and

resorption (breakdown) of bone tissue. Several factors can contribute to this imbalance:

1. Aging: Bone density naturally decreases with age.

2. Hormonal Changes: Reduced estrogen levels in postmenopausal women and

decreased testosterone levels in older men can lead to bone loss.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can weaken

bones.

4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease, Crohn's

disease, and hyperthyroidism, can affect bone health.

5. Medications: Long-term use of certain medications, like corticosteroids and some

anticonvulsants, can contribute to bone loss.

6. Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol

consumption, and low body weight are associated with increased risk.

Risk Factors: Risk factors for osteoporosis include:

 Advanced age
 Female gender

 Family history of the condition

 Low body weight or BMI

 Prior fractures

 Hormone-related factors (e.g., early menopause)

 Certain medications

 Medical conditions affecting bone health

 Sedentary lifestyle

 Smoking

 Excessive alcohol intake

 Low dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D

Pathophysiology: The pathophysiology of osteoporosis involves an imbalance in bone

remodeling, where bone resorption by osteoclasts (cells that break down bone tissue)

outpaces bone formation by osteoblasts (cells that build new bone). This imbalance results in

the gradual loss of bone density and the deterioration of bone microarchitecture.

Signs and Symptoms: Osteoporosis is often referred to as a "silent disease" because it

typically doesn't cause symptoms until a fracture occurs. Common signs and symptoms

include:

 Fractures with minimal trauma, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist

 Loss of height over time (due to compression fractures in the spine)

 Back pain, often caused by vertebral compression fractures

 A stooped or hunched posture (kyphosis)

Medicine Used: Medications commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis include:


 Bisphosphonates: These drugs help slow bone resorption and reduce fracture risk.

Examples include alendronate and risedronate.

 Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Estrogen therapy may be prescribed to

postmenopausal women to help maintain bone density.

 Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Medications like raloxifene can

mimic the effects of estrogen in bone tissue.

 Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: These supplements may be recommended to

ensure adequate bone health.

Nursing Care: Nursing care for patients with osteoporosis involves:

 Educating patients about the importance of calcium and vitamin D intake.

 Encouraging a diet rich in calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products and leafy

greens.

 Promoting weight-bearing exercises and physical activity.

 Assisting with fall prevention strategies.

 Monitoring for medication side effects.

 Providing support and education on lifestyle modifications to reduce fracture risk.

Complications: Complications of osteoporosis include:

 Fractures, which can lead to disability and loss of independence.

 Chronic pain, especially in the spine.

 Reduced quality of life due to pain, disability, and limitations in daily activities.

 Increased mortality risk following hip fractures, particularly in older adults.

 Emotional and psychological distress, including anxiety and depression.

You might also like