Osteoporosis And The Looming Threat To The Elderly

Osteoporosis is one of the most widely suffered degenerative diseases in the world. Essentially the condition weakens the strength of your bones until even the slightest bump or collision can leave them fractured. Beyond this it’s completely symptom free and as such it can be very difficult to detect it before the damage is done. A lot of older people seem much more fragile because of osteoporosis and though there’s little to be done to cure the condition there’s plenty which can be done to prevent it or lessen the damage.

As with most conditions which involve the skeletal system, calcium plays a very important role. Drinking milk or eating more foods which contain calcium will help to strengthen your bones regardless of whether you’re unwell or not. For those who’re either suffering from or at risk of contracting osteoporosis, calcium is imperative. A lot of people simply don’t take in enough and this leaves their skeletons weaker than normal.
Doctors also recommend gentle exercise. This is recommended for a lot of sufferers of arthritis too as it allows mobility to be maintained and strengthens the muscular system. Stronger muscles reinforce bones and continual usage makes bones far less fragile.

Women are at more risk of contracting osteoporosis and as such should take a lot more precaution than men. They become an ‘at risk’ group after passing through menopause as their oestrogen levels drop naturally and this hormone has amazing protective qualities. One in every three post-menopausal women suffers from osteoporosis and as such it’s not a condition which ladies should take lightly!
Though mainly damaging ladies, osteoporosis also affects men. The condition is most common in older members of both genders but can’t be avoided as stated above using some light exercise and a diet rich in calcium! Speak to your doctor if you’re concerned you’re at risk!