Osteoporosis is a debilitating disease characterised by reduced mineral density of the bones as well as the destruction of the tissues of the bones. This damage makes the bone fragile and prone to fractures. The fractures often occur in the spine, wrist, and the hip bone. The disease mostly affects the elderly individuals in the society. This paper examines the causes, diagnosis, prognosis, and osteoporosis-related psychosocial issues. Additionally, the paper is set to explore the accommodations required for an individual suffering from osteoporosis.
Causes of Osteoporosis
Loss of bone density and structure is natural in the process of ageing. However, bone loss is faster in some individuals than others. This increase in the rate of bone loss can lead to osteoporosis. In most cases, women lose bone density rapidly in their post-menopausal period compared to men in the same age group. The causes of osteoporosis are yet to be fully understood. However, certain factors have been linked to high risk of developing osteoporosis. It is believed that low levels of oestrogen in women plays a crucial role in the development of osteoporosis (Shimada & Miyakoshi, 2015). The rapid losses of bone density and structures occur mostly in ageing women. During the post-menopausal period, women experience reduced levels of oestrogen. This reduction is linked to increased loss of bone density.
In men, both oestrogen and testosterone are needed for proper bone formation. Oestrogen is essential in the preservation of bones. Therefore, men have to convert testosterone into oestrogen. Testosterone deficiency has been associated with osteoporosis. In building bone mass, testosterone is often needed for conversion of testosterone into oestrogen. Testosterone can be used in the treatment of the disease (Reid, 2011). When an individual is injected with small doses of either oestrogen or testosterone, the condition usually improves. Testosterone is also essential in reducing bone losses. The bones of the vertebrae are the most commonly affected by low levels of testosterone.
Calcium and vitamin D are fundamental components in the formation and maintenance of bone density as well as structure. Adequate calcium is crucial in the building of bones and teeth. For bones to be stronger and denser, they need enough calcium. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium present in the diet (Reid, 2011). There is a link between inadequate vitamin D and osteoporosis. Persons with high levels of vitamin D have lower risks of developing osteoporosis. Lower levels of vitamin D can lead to poor absorption of calcium resulting in osteoporosis. This link between vitamin D and osteoporosis has also been proven by the fact that that there are an increasing number of people breaking their bones during winter. Sunlight is essential for the provision of vitamin D through the skin. Lack of sunlight makes individuals deficient in vitamin D.
Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
Early diagnosis of osteoporosis is vital for its treatment to be effective. Halting excessive loss of bone density is a significant step in management and treatment of the condition. Diagnosis involves taking patient's medical history, x-rays, blood, and urine tests (Reid, 2011). A bone mineral density test (BMD) may also be used in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. The test has a potential of identifying osteoporosis, determining an individual’s risk of fractures, as well as measuring response to treatment. The most commonly used test is the central DXA test. A BMD value of 2.5 SD (Standard Deviation) is regarded as abnormal. This means the bones are brittle and have low bone density. From such results, osteoporosis can be confirmed.
Prognosis and Trajectory of Osteoporosis
It is possible to halt, slow or reverse the effects of osteoporosis. However, when the bones have become brittle and weak, it can be difficult to treat the condition. Certain individuals often fracture their pelvis, hips, wrist, vertebrae, as well as the humerus following an osteoporotic fracture to the vertebrae (Shimada & Miyakoshi, 2015). Most of the patients with broken hips as a result of osteoporosis often find it difficult to walk independently. One year after osteoporotic hip fracture, the mortality rates are higher. Women have a greater risk of breaking their hips as compared to men. This is due to the weight of their hips and the weakness of the hip bone in osteoporotic patients. Therefore, prompt diagnosis, as well as treatment, is essential to the maintenance of the condition.
Osteoporosis has functional and structural consequences. These outcomes affect the normal functioning of the body. Structural consequences occur in the bones affecting the structures of the bones including the densities. Functional consequences affect the bones reducing their ability to perform their functions (Reid, 2011). When the bones are unable to move properly, the patient is also affected. When the spine fractures, several parts of the body are affected. A spinal fracture can result in height loss, curving of the back or shoulders, as well as thickening of the waistline. All these consequences have the potential to affect the daily activities of the patients. The fractures can lead to reduced independence in task performances. After surgeries, individuals often require help when performing daily tasks such as bathing, shopping, and dressing.
Psychosocial and Vocational issues of Osteoporosis
There are several consequences of osteoporosis. Some of the consequences include pain, body deformity, social isolation, muscle weaknesses, and reduced physical activity. Individuals affected by osteoporosis respond to these outcomes differently (Reid, 2011). The consequences have a potential of affecting the mental and social wellbeing of the individuals. Some of the responses include depression, stress, fear, feelings of worthlessness, anxiety, anger, and hopelessness. When a person loses independence, s/he usually feels depressed and worthless. These may lead to the social isolation of the individual.
Accommodations for People Living with Osteoporosis
Living with individuals who are affected by osteoporosis may be a hard task since certain accommodations need to be made. Due to loss of independence in persons with severe osteoporosis, assistance is often needed. These individuals usually depend on the support of other people in performing tasks such as dressing and bathing (Shimada & Miyakoshi, 2015). An individual must accommodate and adjust depending on the level of the condition. Change in diet is also essential in the elimination of the effects of osteoporosis. The food to be taken should have plenty of calcium and vitamins. These are vital in restoring the normal density of the bones. Change in the lifestyle of the affected individual should also be accommodated.
Osteoporosis is a serious condition that requires early diagnosis and prompt treatment. It can affect young and old individuals. However, it is common among the elderly. Besides, it is crucial for individuals to attempt to prevent the condition before it strikes. Prevention of the disease can be done through adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium. It is important to care for the affected individuals since the condition profoundly affects them. Counselling can be an essential therapy in the alleviation of the symptoms of osteoporosis.
Reflection
References
Reid, D. (2011). Handbook of Osteoporosis. Berlin: Springer Science & Business Media.
Shimada, Y., & Miyakoshi, N. (Eds.). (2015). Osteoporosis in Orthopedics: Assessment and Therapeutic Options. New York: Springer.
