Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle, dramatically increasing the risk of fractures from minor falls or even everyday activities. It is often called the "silent disease" because bone loss occurs without symptoms — until a fracture happens. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly strengthen bones and reduce fracture risk.
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This page provides general health information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
What is osteoporosis?
Bones are living tissue that are constantly being broken down and rebuilt. Osteoporosis occurs when bone is lost faster than it is replaced, reducing bone density and strength. The trabecular structure of bone becomes porous and fragile — like a sponge — making fractures far more likely with everyday stresses that healthy bone would easily withstand.
The most common fracture sites are the hip, spine, and wrist. A hip fracture in older adults carries a significant risk of long-term disability and mortality. Spinal fractures cause loss of height, back pain, and a curved posture. Preventing these fractures with early treatment is the primary goal.
Risk factors
- Age — bone density naturally declines from the mid-30s onwards
- Menopause — the rapid drop in oestrogen at menopause accelerates bone loss significantly
- Low body weight and undernutrition
- Family history of osteoporosis or fragility fractures
- Long-term corticosteroid use — the most common medication-related cause
- Smoking and excessive alcohol
- Low calcium and vitamin D intake or absorption
- Physical inactivity — weight-bearing exercise is essential for bone maintenance
- Medical conditions — rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease, hyperthyroidism, and others
When to see a doctor
Speak to a doctor if you are post-menopausal, over 50, on long-term corticosteroids, or have had a fracture from a minor fall. A DEXA scan (bone density scan) is the gold-standard way to measure bone density and assess fracture risk — and can be arranged through our doctors.
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Treatment options
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation — essential foundation of bone health
- Bisphosphonates (alendronate, risedronate, zoledronic acid) — first-line treatment; reduce fracture risk by 30–50%
- Denosumab — injectable treatment for those intolerant of bisphosphonates
- HRT — for post-menopausal women; protects bone density in addition to relieving menopausal symptoms
- Romosozumab or teriparatide — for severe osteoporosis with high fracture risk
- Weight-bearing exercise — walking, dancing, and resistance training are the most effective lifestyle measures
- Fall prevention — addressing home hazards, balance training, and medication review
How eMedClinic can help
Our doctors assess fracture risk, arrange DEXA scan referrals, prescribe bone-protective treatment, and provide dietary and lifestyle guidance. We also help expats who have moved abroad continue their osteoporosis treatment without gaps in care.
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