Some of the signs and symptoms of osteoporosis are:

• Severe back pain, collapsing vertebrae
• Loss of height
• Weak and brittle fingernails
• Fracture of bones
• Reduction in mobility
• Bones fracture easily
• Loss of bone in the jaw

Loss of bone mass due to aging is the main cause of the osteoporosis. Malfunctioning of parathyroid and adrenal glands can lead to bone loss and subsequently to getting this condition. Osteoporosis is common in the people who have low calcium levels and use medication long term. Low intake of calcium and other dietary choices can also cause osteoporosis. This condition can also come by hereditary.

This diagnosis of Osteoporosis can be made through:

• Dual X-ray absorptiometry, where low dose x-rays are used to measure the bone density
• Blood tests that measure the density of Vitamin D and Calcium in bones
• Conventional radiography that measures Bone Mineral Density
• Chemical Biomarkers, used to detect bone degradation

Based on the severity of the osteoporosis in patient, doctors prescribe the following treatments:

Biophosphonates: Biophosphonates are the drugs administered to treat Osteoporosis. They maintain the density of bone and slow down the breaking.

Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM): Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators act like the estrogen hormone to help maintain bone density.

Parathyroid treatments: Parathyroid treatments slow down the thinning of bones and increase their density. They maintain the level of calcium in bones and stimulate cells to form new bones.

Calcium and Vitamin D supplements: Calcium is the main mineral in bones which makes them strong and healthy. Vitamin D helps the bones to absorb calcium. Calcium and Vitamin D supplements are given for healthy bones.

Hormone replacement Therapy HRT: Hormone replacement therapy is recommended for women who are past menopause. HRT maintains the bone density and reduces the chances of fracture. In men testosterone treatment is done to increase the male sex hormones.