Causes Of Osteoporosis

Our skeleton is a critical component to human physiology; it is what supports us during our everyday activities. Our bones specifically are unique in nature; they reconstruct themselves in a process where cells called osteoblasts regulate bone formation while another pair of cells called osteoclasts regulate resorption of minerals such as calcium and vitamin D. Deterioration of the skeleton is due to enlarged bone weakening by osteoclasts and decreased bone development by osteoblasts, resulting as the diseases known as Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis affects millions of people and causes burdens to both the individual and their health systems. Osteoporosis is often confused with osteoarthritis -- a disease of the joints and surrounding tissue. Fractures …show more content…
The pain symptoms can range from minor tenderness to unbearable pain. One of the most noticeable symptoms of osteoporosis is a “stooped back”. A “stooped back” is created from fractures in the spine resulting in the loss of height. The “stooped back" is known as kyphosis or dowager’s hump. Kyphosis can cause back and neck pain and even affect breathing due to extra pressure on the airway.
Osteoporosis is caused by many factors, some of which are under our control and some that aren’t. As we age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases because our bones naturally lose some of its density and become weaker. Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than are men because the hormone changes that occur in the menopause directly affect bone density. People of White or Asian backgrounds are at a greater risk of developing osteoporosis but it doesn’t mean people of other backgrounds cannot develop the disease. People who have smaller body frames tend to have a higher risk of developing this disease because they may have less bone mass to draw from as they age, and having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at greater risk. Estrogen is a key factor in …show more content…
Menopause causes a fast decrease in estrogen levels. As men age, they experience a decrease in testosterone levels. Too much thyroid hormone can cause bone loss due to the hormone being overactive or if too much thyroid hormone medication is taken to treat an underactive thyroid. When the body does not receive enough vitamin D it can lead to the weakening of bones and bone loss. Along with its many benefits, vitamin D helps your body absorb and use calcium. Bones are the reservoir for calcium and phosphorus. A continuous level of calcium in your blood is needed in your body since organs, such as the heart, muscles, and nerves, depend on calcium. When these organs are in need of calcium, they'll take it from your bones. Over time, as you diminish