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Osteoporosis
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What Is It?
What Causes It?
Treatment Options
Who Is At Risk?
Can It Be Prevented?
Resources and Suggestions
More Information About Osteoporosis
Información
en Español
What Is It?
Osteoporosis (os-TEA-oh-POOR-oh-sis) causes bones to lose strength and break easily as
the person grows older.
What Causes It?
As you age, you lose a greater amount of old bone than your body can replace with new
bone tissue; some medications such as corticosteroids may induce this loss.
Treatment Options
- Medications: Alendronate; Bisphosphonates -- such as alendronate, etidronate,
clodronate, Fosamax, pamidronate, tilvdronate; Calcitonin nasal spray
- Calcium supplements
- Estrogen
- Exercise
- Sodium fluoride
Who Is At Risk?
Women are at greater risk than men because they start with less bone mass. They also
lose bone mass more rapidly after menopause.
Can It Be Prevented?
It may be prevented or slowed down before age 35 by following measures to build strong
bones:
- Avoiding falls
- Avoiding heavy alcohol use
- Avoiding smoking
- Increasing exercise
- Increasing amount of calcium in diet
- Taking estrogen after menopause
More
Information on Osteoporosis
Resources and Suggestions
We Also Suggest:
- Consult your physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Your local chapter can provide a listing of physicians who specialize in arthritis-related conditions.
- Learn to manage your condition -- get involved! Exciting events, volunteer activities and programs, such as the Arthritis Self-Help Course, support groups and exercise programs (consult your physician). Use the Chapter Locator to find activities near you.
- Arthritis Today magazine -- Search for more information or visit Your Arthritis Store to subscribe on-line!
- Your Arthritis Store -- books, newsletters, Arthritis Foundation membership, videos and more.
- Arthritis Today Drug Guide
- Alternative and Complementary Therapies
- Arthritis Today Supplement Guide
- Frequently asked questions about arthritis, treatments and coping skills.
- Arthritis in children, teens and young adults. Check out the information for parents and teachers, too!
- How to Care for Yourself
- Remember, you're not alone! Connect with other people on Message Boards.
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