{"id":861,"date":"2025-09-13T07:08:00","date_gmt":"2025-09-13T14:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gordongunnmd.com\/womens_wellness\/?p=861"},"modified":"2025-03-12T19:19:16","modified_gmt":"2025-03-13T02:19:16","slug":"what-to-know-about-osteoporosis-fullerton-ca","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/gordongunnmd.com\/womens_wellness\/what-to-know-about-osteoporosis-fullerton-ca\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Know About Osteoporosis | Fullerton, CA"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Osteoporosis<\/strong> is a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones, increasing the risk of fractures, even from minor falls or injuries. It is often called a “silent disease” because it develops gradually without symptoms until a fracture occurs. Osteoporosis primarily affects older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, but it can also affect men and younger individuals. Understanding the risks and treatment options is essential for managing and preventing the progression of osteoporosis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Risk Factors for Osteoporosis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. The most significant risk factor is age<\/strong>, as bone density naturally decreases with age. Women, especially those after menopause<\/strong>, are at a higher risk due to lower estrogen levels, which play a critical role in maintaining bone density. Family history<\/strong>, particularly if a parent or sibling had osteoporosis or fractures, can also increase risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other risk factors include lack of physical activity<\/strong>, a low-calcium diet<\/strong>, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis<\/strong>, diabetes<\/strong>, and hormonal disorders<\/strong> can also contribute to bone loss. Additionally, medications such as steroids<\/strong> or treatments for breast cancer<\/strong> or prostate cancer<\/strong> can negatively impact bone health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms and Diagnosis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Osteoporosis is often diagnosed after a fracture or through a bone density test<\/strong> (DEXA scan), which measures bone strength. In the early stages, there are typically no symptoms, but as bone density decreases, individuals may experience back pain, loss of height, and a stooped posture due to spinal fractures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Treatment Options<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

While osteoporosis cannot be cured, it can be managed with proper treatment. The primary goal is to prevent fractures and maintain bone strength. Treatment options include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n