Osteoporosis in men: Causes, symptoms, and expert guide on how keep bones healthy

Osteoporosis, commonly associated with women, is a condition that also significantly affects men. (Image: Canva)

Osteoporosis, commonly associated with women, is a condition that also significantly affects men. Characterised by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures, osteoporosis can have serious consequences for quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial for managing bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis in men.

Causes: 

Hormonal imbalance: Osteoporosis in men arises from a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. One of the primary causes is hormonal imbalance, says Dr Sanjay Lalwani, endocrinologist at Felix Healthcare. He explains that low levels of testosterone, a hormone critical for maintaining bone density, can contribute to bone loss. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, which can accelerate the process of bone density reduction.

Chronic health conditions: These also play a significant role. Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes can negatively impact bone health. For example, chronic kidney disease can lead to imbalances in calcium and phosphate levels, affecting bone integrity.

Lifestyle factors: This is another major contributor. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to lower bone density. Smoking interferes with the production of bone-forming cells, while excessive alcohol can disrupt the balance of calcium and hormones necessary for bone maintenance.

Medication: Certain medications, especially long-term corticosteroids, can weaken bones by interfering with bone-building processes. Conditions like prostate cancer, which may require androgen-deprivation therapy, can also increase osteoporosis risk by lowering testosterone levels, says Dr Lalwani.

Symptoms

Osteoporosis is often termed a "silent disease" because it typically progresses without noticeable symptoms until a fracture occurs, says the expert. The lack of early warning signs can lead to delayed diagnosis and management.

However, there are several indicators that may suggest the presence of osteoporosis:

Fractures: The most common and telling symptom is a fracture resulting from minor trauma or falls. These are often seen in the hip, spine, or wrist and can occur with seemingly little cause.

Loss of height: As osteoporosis progresses, the spine can become compressed, leading to a noticeable reduction in height.

Postural changes: A stooped or hunched posture, known as kyphosis, can develop due to vertebral fractures, which can cause significant discomfort and affect mobility.

Back pain: Persistent back pain, particularly in the lower back, may result from vertebral fractures or the collapsing of spinal bones.

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Prevention

Preventing osteoporosis involves a multifaceted approach focussing on lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and regular medical evaluations.

Diet and nutrition: Consuming a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health. Calcium helps in building and maintaining bone density, while vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption. Foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals are excellent sources of calcium, and sunlight exposure or supplements can provide vitamin D.

Physical activity: Engaging in weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises is vital for maintaining bone density. Activities such as walking, jogging, resistance training, and strength exercises help stimulate bone formation and improve balance, reducing the risk of falls.

Lifestyle choices: Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake are crucial steps in osteoporosis prevention. Smoking cessation and moderate alcohol consumption can significantly impact bone health.

Regular screenings: Men at higher risk for osteoporosis should undergo regular bone density screenings. Early detection allows for timely intervention and management to prevent fractures and further bone loss.

Medication: For individuals at significant risk, doctors may prescribe medications to help maintain bone density and reduce fracture risk. These should be taken as directed and monitored regularly. Osteoporosis in men is a serious condition that requires attention to prevent and manage effectively.