|
|
Diseases of the hormone-producing glands Many hormones in the body can affect the process of bone turnover. If you have a disease of the hormone-producing glands, you may be at higher risk of developing osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can be triggered by hormone-related diseases, including hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)
Increased risk Other things thought to increase the risk of osteoporosis and broken bones include:
Symptoms of osteoporosis Osteoporosis develops slowly over several years. It is likely there will be no warning signs or symptoms until a minor fall or sudden impact causes a bone fracture. Healthy bones should be able to withstand a fall from standing height, so a bone that breaks in these circumstances is known as a fragility fracture. The most common injuries in people with osteoporosis are:
A simple cough or a sneeze may cause the fracture of a rib or the partial collapse of one of the bones of the spine. A fractured bone in an older person can be serious, depending on where it occurs, and can lead to long-term disability. For example, a hip fracture may lead to long-term problems with mobility. One visible sign of osteoporosis is the characteristic stooping (bent forward) position that develops in older people. It happens when the bones in the spine are fractured, making it difficult to support the weight of the body. Is osteoporosis painful? Osteoporosis usually doesn't cause pain unless a bone is broken as a result of the condition. Although not always painful, spinal fractures are the most common cause of chronic pain associated with osteoporosis. Also see: Osteoporosis: Diagnosis and Treatment Prevention of Osteoporosis |