What Are The Warning Signs Of Osteoporosis During Pre, Peri And Post Menopause?

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Menopause marks the beginning of a significant phase in a woman's life, which also brings attention to certain critical health considerations. In this article, we will look at different expert opinions on the warning signs of osteoporosis during the pre, peri and post menopause.

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Miror (Menopause Community): Mr. Sanjith Shetty, Founder and CEO - Miror

One of the most critical concerns during this time is the increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition that renders bones weak and susceptible to fractures. Recognizing the signs of osteoporosis during pre, peri and post-menopause is crucial, as they can be subtle yet consequential. These signs may encompass a loss of height, persistent back pain, fractures occurring, changes in posture etc.

A decline in estrogen levels during pre and perimenopause is a critical factor that can lead to weakening of bone mass. Hence even a simple fall can pose significant dangers, potentially resulting in fatal consequences.

During the peri and pre-menopausal periods (age 35 onwards), special attention should be given to managing health, as it results in a natural depletion of critical hormones like Estrogen. Consequently, it becomes crucial to be mindful of one's health during this transitional phase and address the effects of changing hormone levels.

Taking proactive measures to safeguard bone health during menopause can have a profound impact on overall well-being. Engaging in regular exercise not only helps maintain bone density but also improves muscle strength and balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and fractures.

Lifestyle modifications like quitting smoking, getting adequate sunlight, de-stressing oneself, and avoiding fatty, salty and processed foods also plays a significant role in promoting bone health during pre and peri and post-menopause phase.

A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, is the foundation for optimal bone health. These essential nutrients fortify bones, making them more resilient in the face of age-related changes.

Nevertheless, women in their 40s and 50s often overlook warning signs of weaker bone health and consequently increase the risk of developing severe bone-related conditions.

Therefore, it becomes essential for women to actively seek assistance from healthcare professionals, support groups, and communities. Such proactive steps will enable them to acquire comprehensive knowledge and effectively manage osteoporosis during the pre, peri and post menopause phases.

Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore: Dr. Lokesh A V, Consultant - Orthopaedic Surgery, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

Menopause is a natural physiological phenomenon, resulting when ovaries stop functioning in women after a certain age, typically between 40 to 50 years of age. During this period, women experience a number of bothersome symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal atrophy and dryness, and mood swings.

In addition to these, osteoporosis is the most prevalent condition among menopausal women. It is a multifactorial systemic skeletal disease where bone tissues deteriorate micro-structurally, resulting in a reduction of bone mineral density (BMD) and bone fragility or easy brittleness or breakability of the bones. These patients develop body aches and bone pains gradually along with forward bending of the spine. BMD measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA scan) is the gold standard to diagnose osteoporosis.

The major health threat of osteoporosis is osteoporotic fractures, which mostly occur in the spine, the hip, or the wrist.

For a 60-year-old woman, the lifetime fracture risk is almost 44% which is double that of a man of the same age, which is 25%. Osteoporotic fractures take place in temporal sequence, with the first sign being fractures of the lower end of the radius starting at age 50 years, followed by vertebral fractures at age 60-75 years, and hip fractures beginning in the late 70s. An osteoporotic fracture can cause loss of mobility and autonomy, as well as a decline in quality of life.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.