OSTEOPOROSIS
PROBLEM
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bone loses its normal density, mass, and strength, which makes it weak and more vulnerable to fracture (break).
CAUSES
The weakening of the bone can be caused by several factors. Some of these risk factors include the following:
A.Inadequate amounts of calcium and vitamin D in the diet.
B.Decreased exercise.
C.Some chronic diseases, such as thyroid disease, diabetes, and heart failure.
D.Cancer.
E.Smoking.
F.Low estrogen levels (menopause).
G.Excessive alcohol intake.
H.Advancing age.
I.Ethnicity: White and Asian women.
J.Long-term use of certain medications, such as steroids, thyroid and seizure medications, and some cancer treatment medications.
PREVENTION
A.Calcium intake: Be sure to get adequate calcium intake:
Dietary intake of calcium is recommended for the following:
Men younger than 50 years: 1,000 mg/d.
Men 50 to 69 years: 1,000 mg/d.
Men older than 70 years: 1,200 mg/d.
Women younger than or equal to 50 years: 1,000 mg/d.
Women older than 50 years: 1,200 mg/d.
Calcium supplements such as calcium carbonate or calcium citrate are recommended. Do not exceed more than 500 mg at one time. If taking two tablets to meet requirements, divided doses are recommended for best absorption. Vitamin D intake: Be sure to get adequate vitamin D daily.
B.Dietary intake of vitamin D is recommended for the following:
Men younger than 50 years: 400 to 800 IU/d.
Men 50 to 69 years: 800 to 1,000 IU/d.
Men older than 70 years: 800 to 1,000 IU/d.
Women younger than or equal to 50 years: 400 to 800 IU/d.
Women older than 50 years: 800 to 1,000 IU/d.
Food sources of vitamin D include milk fortified with vitamin D, salmon, egg yolks, cod liver oil, tuna, liver, and cereals fortified with vitamin D.
C.Avoid excessive alcohol intake.
D.Avoid smoking and/or encourage smoking cessation.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.If osteoporosis is suspected, your provider may order a bone density study of your bones. Goals are to prevent the disease from occurring.
B.If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, you need to prevent the disease from progressing and take measures to prevent all bone fractures.
C.Use caution when walking on wet, slippery surfaces.
D.Avoid risk of falls by making your home safe. Avoid throw rugs on floors and remove small items that are easily tripped over. Use caution when pets are around to prevent falling over your pet.
Activity:
A.Physical activity is vital to maintain and prevent further bone loss.
B.Weight-bearing activity is the best activity, such as walking or running for at least 30 minutes a day, 3 days a week.
C.Avoid high-impact sports and activities such as jumping and high-impact aerobics to prevent fracturing the bones.
D.Avoid any risk of falls.
E.Use walking devices, such as a cane or walker, if needed.
F.Bathtubs should have nonskid protection.
Diet:
A.Eat a regular well-balanced diet. Increase food sources rich in calcium and vitamin D.
B.Sources of vitamin D include milk, some fish (salmon, tuna), egg yolks, cod liver oil, liver, and drinks and cereals fortified with vitamin D and minerals.
C.You can also get vitamin D from spending 20 to 30 minutes in the summer sunlight, exposing your skin to the sun without wearing sunscreen for this length of time.
D.Sources of calcium include green leafy vegetables (kale and broccoli), almonds, tofu, milk, dairy products (cottage cheese, cheese, yogurt), and drinks fortified with calcium such as orange juice and soy milk.
E.If you are overweight, a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet is suggested to lose weight.
Medications:
A.You may be prescribed nonprescription medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed for pain.
B.Supplements: Calcium, vitamin D, and hormone replacement for women who are menopausal.
C.Bisphosphonates:
1.If prescribed a bisphosphonate, take the medication with a full glass of water.
2.Wait approximately 30 to 60 minutes before reclining or consuming other medications, beverages, or food to lower the risk of regurgitation or a burning sensation.
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Been experiencing any pain; you need to have your provider assess this pain.
B.Other: ___________________________________________________________
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCES
National Osteoporosis Foundation: www.nof.org
The National Women’s Health Information Center: www.4women.gov/FAQ/osteoporosis.cfm
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