Expert warns perimenopausal osteoporosis cases on the rise

A health expert warns perimenopausal osteoporosis has become a growing issue among women. One the reasons there are so many cases is because a lot of the women who are suffering from the condition are reportedly not getting checked. Many people are also not very aware of the signs and symptoms of the health issue.

Women tend to lose 20% of their bone density in the five and seven years around the time of menopause. Painful fractures and bones that have become weak are big indications you may be suffering from osteoporosis. The disease is a result of the loss of bone strength and mass. It can also progress even if you do not experience pain or show any sign of it. As you age, the chances of developing osteoporosis increases for women. When women develop the condition before menopause, it is known as perimenopausal osteoporosis.

Regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle, that can improve bone health, is the only way women can reduce their risk of developing the condition, according to Dr C S Dhar, a consultant at the department of orthopaedics and joint replacements at a city hospital. "To reduce the risk of osteoporosis, eat a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D and do regular exercise,"Dr Dhar told a news portal." Adding, "It is not just Calcium which helps in getting a strong bone, but Vitamin D plays a vital role in getting a healthy bone. Vitamin D enables the body to absorb calcium, and calcium is necessary for maintaining the bone density. Women around the time of menopause may be prescribed a vitamin D derivative and calcium supplements."

Since you can develop osteoporosis at any age, it is important to be aware of the causes and symptoms of the condition. A broken bone is a big indication of the condition and is usually the first sign for most women. Osteoporosis can affect the spine, wrists, shoulders, pelvis, and hips because they are all active. Fractures can also cause the body's shape to change, especially if the spine is impacted. If you have a family history of osteoporosis or fracture, you have a high chance of developing the disease. Patients who suffer from kidney, thyroid disease, and connective tissue disorders are also prone to the disease. Experts say anorexia,bulimia and other eating disorders can also be contributing factors. Women whose menstrual cycle becomes irregular for longer than 12 months should also get checked for the condition.