Signs Of Brittle Bones In Women: Here’s How To Prevent It

Women are more likely to have weak or brittle bones, especially after middle age. Osteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle. According to research, a woman's lifetime risk of getting osteoporotic fracture is larger than her combined risk of breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancer. So it is important to limit the amount of fractures caused by osteoporosis.

Risk Factors Of Brittle Bones In Women

Several hormones in the body have an impact on bone turnover. Hormonal abnormalities that might cause osteoporosis include:

• Hyperactive thyroid gland 
• Lower levels of sex hormones (oestrogen and testosterone)
• Pituitary gland dysfunction
• Parathyroid gland hyperactivity (hyperparathyroidism)
• Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis if they have:
• Menopause in a young age (before the age of 45)
• A hysterectomy (womb removal) before the age of 45, especially if the ovaries are also removed 
• Missed periods for more than 6 months as a result of excessive exercise or diets

Symptoms Of Brittle Bones

As per Dr Rajesh Verma, Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon from B.N.K Hospital, Bangalore, signs of osteoporosis are not obvious until the bone loss becomes substantial. This is because it is frequently misdiagnosed as normal pain or weakness in the body. When it rises, the signs and symptoms become more visible. Following are the symptoms of osteoporosis:

Unexplained Fractures

Women with brittle bones may experience fractures for no apparent reason. This is because brittle bones are more prone to fracture. There is a lower likelihood of fracture if you are in the early phases or do not have osteoporosis. This type of fall is more likely in adults over the age of 50.

Also read: How Banana Tea Can Improve Your Health: From Strong Bones To Healthy Heart

Loss Of Height

Women with brittle bones may experience a gradual loss of height due to compression fractures in the spine. This indicator is more visible and obvious than any other osteoporosis symptom. Loss of height is caused by variables causing osteoporosis rather than physical height loss.

Back Pain

Women with brittle bones may experience back pain due to compression fractures in the spine. It is mostly caused by fractured or collapsed vertebrae. Pain symptoms vary from person to person, however slight tenderness might last for a long time.

Stooped Back

If you have developed a stooped back, this indicates that you have advanced osteoporosis and should seek medical attention to address it. If you do not treat it at this point, you may suffer from serious health implications. There are difficulties with the central nervous system and other physiological functions, as well as posture deformities. Kyphosis is a disorder characterised by a stooped back that can be difficult to correct.

Also read: 6 Foods To Avoid For Healthy Bones

How To Prevent Brittle Bones In Women 

Exercise Regularly

Weight-bearing and resistance exercises can help build strong bones and muscles, which can help prevent bone loss. Under the guidance of an experienced trainer, aim to get enough of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. 

Eat A Healthy Diet

A balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients can help strengthen bones. Aim for at least three servings of dairy products a day, as well as plenty of green, leafy vegetables. 

Avoid Smoking And Excessive Alcohol

Smoking and drinking can increase the risk of bone loss and fractures. Avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption to no more than one or two drinks per day. 

Get Adequate Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Most people can get enough from food sources, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk.