Osteoporosis
By: Evan Bowman
Disease Identification
Osteoporosis is a disease that affects your skeletal system and bones. The body function impacted is the creation of new bone material.
Explanation of Imbalance
Osteoporosis affects the bones and skeletal system. It occurs when the creation of new bone does not keep up with the removal of old bone. A decreased amount of sex hormones, as well as overactive thyroid and lifestyle choices can contribute to the onset of osteoporosis. Age, sex, and family history also contribute. The body does not necessarily try to balance itself during this process, because there is not a hormonal imbalance.
Symptoms
There are multiple symptoms of osteoporosis. One of them is back pain caused by fractured or collapsed vertebra. Other symptoms include stooped posture, loss of height over time, and bone fractures that occur much more easily than expected.
Treatments
There are many different treatments for osteoporosis. One type of treatment is just an adjustment to a person's lifestyle. This can include eating healthier, exercising on a daily basis, and smoking and consuming alcohol less. Prescribed medication can also be used to treat osteoporosis. Medications for osteoporosis include Alendronate, Risedronate, Ibandronate, and Zoledronic acid. Hormone-related therapy is another treatment for osteoporosis. This is done through estrogen therapy or testosterone replacement therapy.
www.webmd.com
A picture comparing a healthy bone (right) and a bone affected by osteoporosis (left).
www.webmd.com
A picture showing the stages of osteoporosis.
www.scienceblogs.com
A picture showing the structure of a healthy bone (right) and a bone with osteoporosis (left).
Quote
"Although there is no cure for osteoporosis, there are steps you can take to prevent, slow or stop its progress. In some cases, you may even be able to improve bone density and reverse the disorder to some degree."- National Osteoporosis Foundation