Decreased bone density - Hormone Harmony Clinic

What is decreased bone density?

Decreased bone density, also known as osteopenia or osteoporosis, occurs when the struts and plates that make up bone tissue become thinner and the spaces between them grow wider. This causes the bone to lose strength and structural integrity, making them more prone to fractures and breaks.

Some key things to know about decreased bone density:

• It often develops without symptoms, so many people don't know they have it until a minor fall or sudden impact causes a bone fracture
• Women are at higher risk after menopause due to declining estrogen levels
• The leading causes are aging, low calcium and vitamin D intake, and medications like steroid hormones
• Diagnosis is made using a bone mineral density (BMD) test, such as a DXA scan

Signs and Symptoms

In the early stages of decreased bone density, there are usually no clear signs. Over time, the following symptoms may develop as bones weaken:

• Back pain caused by fractured or collapsing vertebra
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped posture or curved upper back
• More fractures or breaks than usual

Risk Factors and Causes

There are a variety of risk factors that contribute to decreased BMD:

• Being female
• Advanced age
• Family history of osteoporosis
• Menopause and lowered estrogen
• Low body weight/being underweight
• Calcium or vitamin D deficiency
• Inactivity or lack of exercise
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Steroid medication usage

Screening and Diagnosis

A DXA scan is typically used to measure bone mineral density. It uses X-rays to check the density of bones in high-risk areas like the hip and spine. The results help diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis if they show BMD levels are lower than normal.

If bone density loss is detected early, medication treatments can help stabilize bone mass before serious complications occur. The experts at Hormone Harmony Clinic provide specialized care plans to improve low hormones, nutrition intake, and lifestyle factors that impact BMD. I highly recommend scheduling a consultation with them.