Know about osteoporosis

According to the research taken by the National Health Service (NHS), about 3 million folks in the UK are suffering from osteoporosis, which is ultimately affecting around 230,000 fractures every year. Osteoporosis is a civic well-being threat and about 44 million people in the USA, 55% of people aged 50 or over, are affected says the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF). According to NOF study, 10 million individuals are currently suffering from osteoporosis, and approximately 34 million are considered to have very low bone mass; which categorizes them at knowingly increased risk for osteoporosis.

What are the causes of osteoporosis ?

• Genetics
• Menopause
• Poor intake of calcium
• Lack of vitamin D
• Inactivity
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol intake
• High sodium intake
• Coffee
• A high acid-ash diet
• Medications

Symptoms of osteoporosis

In the early course of the disease, there might be no symptoms of osteoporosis in women but gradually a dull pain in the bones or muscles may occur especially low back pain or neck pain. In the later course of the disease, dull pains may take the form of sharp pains which may appear all of a sudden. The pain may not spread into other areas but it may become worse by activity that goes on to put on weight in the affected area usually accompanied by tenderness. It generally begins to subside within a week while the pain may cling on for more than three months.

A very disturbing fact is that women suffering from osteoporosis may not even recall or remember if they had a fall or other trauma that has led to a broken bone especially in the foot or spine. Compressor fractures in the spinal cord may result in the loss of height along with a stooping posture.

What is Ibandronic Acid?

Ibandronic Acid is an osteoporosis medication, which is used for treating osteoporosis (bone thinning) in postmenopausal women. It belongs to a group of medications known as bisphosphonates. This prescription drug can also help to prevent osteoporosis in women who are at a higher risk of developing it. Apart from reducing the breakdown of bones, this medicine also increases the density of bone mineral in women with risk factors for osteoporosis. It works by targeting the areas of the bone where there is cancer as well as the osteoclast activity high. By reducing the osteoclast activity, it helps to bring the balance of both osteoblast activity and osteoclast back to normal thereby reducing pain and strengthening the bone. It also signifies less calcium being lost from bones.

Preventing the occurrence of osteoporosis

Though innumerable treatments are available for the treatment of osteoporosis in women yet, some general measure should always be followed not only by post-menopausal women but also by others. A regular exercise coupled with a healthy diet is the key to improve the strength of their bones. Walking as well as aerobics is recommended. Smoking should be stopped immediately while alcohol intake should be limited. In terms of a proper diet, a good calcium intake is recommended throughout for healthy bone.