What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a reduction in bone strength that increases fracture risk. It usually does not hurt until a fracture occurs.
Who may need assessment
Risk increases with age, menopause, previous fragility fracture, prolonged steroid therapy, low body weight, some endocrine disorders, smoking, excess alcohol and family history.
Protecting bones
Adequate dietary calcium, vitamin D when indicated, resistance and weight-bearing activity, fall prevention and treatment of contributing conditions are important. Supplements and medicines should be individualized.
Why fractures matter
Hip and vertebral fractures can cause major loss of independence. New severe back pain after minor strain, loss of height or a low-trauma fracture deserves medical evaluation.
Important: This page provides general health education and cannot diagnose an individual. New, severe or rapidly worsening symptoms need direct medical assessment.
Emergency symptoms: If there is severe chest pain, major breathing difficulty, new weakness/speech difficulty, loss of consciousness, seizure, severe bleeding or another rapidly life-threatening problem, seek emergency medical care rather than waiting for an online response.