Prevention
If the first changes in bone density have already been detected, the patient is treated with basic therapy. This includes the avoidance of harmful substances such as nicotine and alcohol, which promote osteoporosis. Due to the calcification of the blood vessels and restriction of the lung capacity, the transport of oxygen is hindered and the supply of bone is no longer optimally ensured.
Excessive alcohol consumption damages the organs and can hinder the absorption of calcium and vitamin D. It is advisable to draw up an optimal diet plan with a nutritionist so that the patient can absorb enough nutrients through food. Sport is also important. Exercise allows the bones to eat properly through pressure and traction.
It is also advisable to reduce weight if you are very overweight, as unnecessary weight puts a strain on the bones. If the patient does not get enough calcium from his diet, calcium supplements should be taken. If a vitamin D deficiency remains despite a daily 30-minute stay in the sun, preparations are also recommended. Pain-relieving medication can be taken at any time in case of severe pain due to fractures.
Causes
The causes for the development of osteoporosis are manifold. Often affected are women, especially those belonging to the white population. In addition, an increased sedentary activity at work may be a possible cause, since the nutrition of the bones is reduced compared to too much exercise in everyday life.A poor diet and thus a chronic lack of calcium over many years also promotes osteoporosis, as does a low intake of solar energy (vitamin D).
Nicotine dependence damages the lung performance and leads to calcification of vessels, so that the oxygen transport is reduced and thus the bones and other organs cannot be supplied optimally. High alcohol consumption can cause organ damage. Particularly in the digestive tract, nutrients can no longer be filtered out of the diet and a calcium deficiency occurs.
If many of these factors apply to a person, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases enormously. In addition, thyroid diseases, osteomalacia, liver or intestinal disorders and a permanent intake of certain medications, which mainly contain glucocortisone, are negatively promoting. The glucocortisones lead to a decrease in bone density.