Have you noticed that your gums seem to be receding lately? Are your fingernails becoming more weak and brittle? These may be signs that you are developing osteopenia, which can lead to osteoporosis. Osteopenia is a condition in which bone density is lower than normal yet not low enough to be considered osteoporosis. If treatment of early bone density loss does not occur, osteoporosis may likely develop.
Approximately 18 million American individuals have osteopenia today. It is important to be aware of your bone density level. Eating a healthy diet and conscious lifestyle can prevent severe bone density loss resulting in osteoporosis. Advanced osteoporosis can cause body disfigurement, such as the “hunchback” look, seen in the elderly.
We Can Help!
Here at Holtorf Medical Center our doctors are specially trained in diagnosing and treating low bone density using natural, safe and effective treatments designed to prevent osteopenia or osteoporosis from occurring. Talk with your doctor or call (877) 508-1177 to speak with a patient representative.
What is Bone Density?
Bone health is measured by bone density. The higher the density, the stronger the bones are. The bone density is what sustains the amount of minerals, like calcium, within your bones to keep them healthy. With bone density loss, the bones are weakened by the loss of minerals, making the bones brittle.
What Causes Bone Density Loss?
Many factors may put you at risk of bone density loss. Some of these risk factors are:
- Too thin/small body frame
- Family History
- Inactive lifestyle
- Decreased calcium in diet
- Early menopause
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Men with low testosterone levels
- Antidepressant medications
Numerous studies have shown an increased risk of bone loss and fractures in individuals taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants such as Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro and Celexa.
What are the Symptoms of Bone Density Loss?
Unfortunately, there may be no signs or symptoms at first so it is important to have your bone density checked before symptoms occur. Some warning signs which may indicate a decreasing bone density could be:
- Receding gums
- Weakened and brittle fingernails
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Fitness level seems lower
- Lower height measurements
How is Bone Density Loss Diagnosed?
The test for bone density is called a DXA or DEXA scan and is not the same as a bone scan.
This bone density test uses a small amount of x-ray to measure the amount of minerals within your bones.
How is Bone Density Loss Treated?
Many traditional physicians have chosen to treat patients with bisphosphonates such as Fosamax, Acetenol, Reclast and Reclast. Many studies have shown these drugs did diminish bone loss for a few years, however, the lack of new bone formation using bisphosphonates resulted in excessive calcification of old bone, and making them brittle. The use of Fosamax has also been studied determining that 1 out of 25 patients taking Fosamax developed osteonecrosis of the jaw. The use of bisphosphonates has also been associated with heart arrhythmias, muscle or joint pain, and esophageal cancer.
Here are Holtorf Medical Group our treatments for bone loss consist of checking for mineral deficiencies and replenishing them, Vitamin D, optimizing hormones, and encouraging low weight exercise. Please consult with your doctor or call (877) 508-1177 to speak to a patient representative.