Osteoporosis Treated by Bone Specialists at Mercy in Baltimore

Osteoporosis, which means “porous bones,” is a progressive bone health disease in which creation of new bone does not keep up with the loss of old bone. Bones that become weak or brittle may be caused by not absorbing enough calcium. This can cause bones, especially in the spine, hip or wrist, to break more easily.

Osteoporosis can occur in men and women, but it is most common in women after menopause. Since osteoporosis, known as the “silent disease,” often has no early warning signs. It is important for people in mid-life to be monitored for risk of developing osteoporosis.

The silent disease of osteoporosis often does not have early signs or symptoms. As osteoporosis progresses, symptoms can include:

• Back pain
• Height loss
• Stooped posture
• Easily fractured bones

Endocrinologists may conduct a bone density test to evaluate bone strength and diagnosis osteoporosis. A DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorpiometry) scan measures the bone density in the spine, hips and wrists for the risk of osteoporosis.

Treatment options for osteoporosis consist of medications or hormone therapy. Endocrinologists specializing in bone health monitor patients who are being treated for osteoporosis.