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Last Updated on May 4, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Osteoporosis and osteopenia are both serious conditions that can increase the risk of complications to reduce the quality of life. Both conditions make the bones weak and brittle, making them more susceptible to fractures. Besides fractures, osteoporosis, and osteopenia can also lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Osteoporosis has also been linked to an increased risk of other medical conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. In this article, we will discuss osteopenia and osteoporosis in detail.
What is the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is the gradual loss of bone mass with a bone mineral density (BMD) near -2.5 and lower. Osteopenia is also the gradual loss of protein and minerals that degrades bone mass but with a bone mineral density between -1 to -2.5. It is quite evident from the numbers that osteoporosis has more bone loss than osteopenia.
Can osteoporosis or osteopenia be deadly?
Not exactly. Osteoporosis can become serious if not treated timely as it increases the risk of fractures, especially in the spine and hip. Likewise, osteopenia is not fatal or life-threatening but rather a warning for people to pay more attention to their health, lifestyle habits, and surroundings.
Osteoporosis and osteopenia themselves are not typically fatal or life-threatening conditions. However, they can increase the risk of fractures, which can have serious consequences, especially in older adults. Fractures can lead to disability, loss of independence, and even premature death. Hip fractures, in particular, can be especially dangerous and can increase the risk of mortality in older adults.
Are osteopenia or osteoporosis reversible?
No. Osteopenia and osteoporosis are both conditions characterized by reduced bone density and increased risk of fractures. While these conditions cannot be completely reversed, healthy lifestyle changes and proper medical treatment can slow down the progression of the disease.Therefore, individuals with osteoporosis or osteopenia to work with their healthcare provider to manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications. This may include lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and avoidance of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to improve bone density and reduce fracture risk.
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