Osteoporosis is a bone disease. Learn more about its symptoms, causes, treatment options, and risk factors.
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and brittle. This makes them more likely to break from a fall or even minor stresses. Symptoms include back pain, loss of height over time, a stooped posture, and bones that break more easily than expected. The main causes of osteoporosis are aging, hormonal changes, especially in women after menopause, and deficiencies in calcium or vitamin D. Treatment options include medications to strengthen bones, supplements, and lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. Risk factors include age, gender (women are more prone), family history, low body weight, and certain medical conditions. It's important to get regular bone density tests as you age, especially if you have risk factors, to catch osteoporosis early.