Being diagnosed with bone loss can lead to a lot of anxiety and stress. Here are a few questions you can ask your osteoporosis doctor to give you a better understanding of the disease:
Is it hereditary?
Your genetic makeup can predispose you and make you more vulnerable to the disease. If you’re thin and have a small-boned frame or build, or if your estrogen levels are low, those could be a major factor. Also, if you have a history of fractures in your family or if a family member has osteoporotic fracture, then that makes you more at risk of developing the disease, says HealthCentral.
What can you do?
There are few things that can be done if your case is hereditary. However, the right diet and regular exercise can do a lot to improve your condition and alleviate the pain. Improving your intake of calcium as well as vitamin D can also help.
Other possible causes?
Don’t have hereditary osteoporosis in your family? In some situations, the condition might be the result of taking certain medications.
What diseases can cause osteoporosis?
AIDS/ HIV as well as ankylosing spondylitis, hyperthyroidism and hyperparathyroidism are just among the many diseases that can lead to osteoporosis. Emphysema, eating disorders, breast cancer, bone marrow disorders, blood disorders along with kidney disease, lupus and diabetes mellitus are also on the list. Multiple sclerosis, leukemia and lymphoma are also included.
What to do?
Consult with an osteoporosis doctor as soon as possible. Early treatment can help slow down the degeneration as well as provide much-needed pain relief. With the help of an experienced and compassionate doctor, finding the best way to live with arthritis is possible.