Bone thinning in youth: Recognizing signs, remedies, and additional information
Early onset osteoporosis is a condition that affects individuals before the age of 50, causing bones to weaken and become more fragile. Without proper treatment, it can lead to serious complications, such as fractures in the wrists, forearms, back, and hips.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis. These include a low calcium intake, vitamin D deficiency, insufficient protein intake, low levels of exercise, and heavy drinking. Additionally, smoking, having a family history of osteoporosis or parents with a history of hip fractures, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk. Some of these medical conditions include inflammatory bowel disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, Cushing's syndrome, type 1 diabetes, hyperparathyroidism, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, anorexia nervosa, certain types of cancer, and glucocorticoid use. In some cases, early onset osteoporosis may be caused by a single variant in certain genes, known as monogenic osteoporosis.
People with osteoporosis may not know they have it until they experience fractures. However, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve a person's outlook. Common treatments for early onset osteoporosis include calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, and lifestyle modifications such as a nutritious diet and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol.
Medically, first-line drug treatments typically involve bisphosphonates like alendronate and risedronate. These inhibit bone resorption and are given orally or intravenously. Other medications may include parathyroid hormone analogs (e.g., teriparatide), monoclonal antibodies targeting bone metabolism (e.g., romosozumab), and hormone replacement therapy in appropriate cases.
Avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol intake is advised, while balanced nutrition with adequate calcium-rich foods and sufficient sunlight exposure for Vitamin D synthesis complements other therapies. It's important to note that some consider complementary therapies like collagen supplements or herbal remedies, but these should only be taken under medical supervision and do not replace standard treatments.
Early onset osteoporosis requires a personalized, often multidisciplinary approach involving dietary, lifestyle, and pharmacological strategies tailored to the underlying cause and severity. If you suspect you may have early onset osteoporosis, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
[1] National Osteoporosis Foundation. (2021). Osteoporosis Basics. [Online] Available at: https://www.nof.org/patients/diseasefacts/
[2] International Osteoporosis Foundation. (2021). Treatment of Osteoporosis. [Online] Available at: https://www.iofbonehealth.org/patient-information/treatment-osteoporosis
[3] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2021). Osteoporosis. [Online] Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis
[4] American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Osteoporosis. [Online] Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/osteoporosis
[5] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Osteoporosis. [Online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355880
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