Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become brittle. Bone mass deteriorates and sufferers also experience bone tissue loss. It is a common condition experienced by people 65 and over, especially women. Osteoporosis is also nearly asymptomatic. Most people don’t realize that they have it until they experience the most common effect of the disease – fracture.
Because there has been a loss of bone density with osteoporosis, you may be surprised by the ability of a minor fall or bump to shatter bones. The break could be a minor one in your arm, or it could occur in your spine and change your life forever.
According to a study out of East Virginia Medical School in 2016, fractures that happen due to osteoporosis require more hospital time than other breaks and are more costly. Osteoporosis is something that it is important to be aware of as you age, so that you can take steps to prevent it. Remember, it is not something that you’ll feel happening, but you will sure feel that unexpected fracture.
Following are 7 signs that might point to osteoporosis. Pay attention to #6 – it’s something that many people do not connect with the possibility of brittle bones.
