According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 53 million people in the US have Osteoporosis or are at risk for developing the disease. Research also shows that out of these numbers, 55% of older adults are at significant risk for Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that causes one's bones to become weak, so weak that they could break even during normal activity. Although the disease is linked to certain issues such as age, family history, and lack of physical activity, there are certain habits that, if not avoided, could worsen or cause it.
1. Avoiding Sunlight
Vitamin D is essential in maintaining bone health and its main source is sunlight. People who constantly avoid sunlight exposure, especially for a prolonged period, are at high risk of developing Osteoporosis. For those living with the disease, avoiding sunlight can worsen the symptoms. Research shows that older people aged 50 and above need about 800 to 1,000 IU of vitamin D each day. Besides the sun, older adults can also get vitamin D from supplements to avoid putting their health at risk, especially if they live in areas with little to no sunlight throughout the year.
2. Taking Certain Medications
Prescription medications can help treat various conditions, but they could also cause others. Taking certain prescription medications can increase or worsen the risk of Osteoporosis. For instance, prolonged use of drugs such as Antiepileptic Drugs, Corticosteroids, Heparin, and Progestin increases the risk of bone loss and density. However, drug-induced Osteoporosis is preventable when the right measures are observed. Pharmacists can notify prescribing doctors and recommend other alternative medications when symptoms are detected.
3. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
A study has shown that excessive drinking, especially during adolescence and young adulthood, decreases bone density and increases the risk of developing Osteoporosis. Our bodies rely mostly on calcium for healthy bones; excessive drinking interferes with how the body absorbs calcium and vitamin D, potentially leading to the development and worsening of Osteoporosis.
4. Smoking Tobacco
Regular smoking of tobacco causes various chronic diseases such as lung cancer which is a high contributor to cancer fatalities. In addition, there is a direct link between smoking and bone health; tobacco can limit the body's ability to absorb calcium and inhibit the body's production of osteoblasts, the bone-forming cells that grow new bones. Without proper calcium absorption and lack of osteoblasts the risk of developing Osteoporosis is high. Furthermore, tobacco could also lead to various skeletal conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and hip fractures. Seniors can be prone to illnesses and all the health risks associated with regular use of tobacco, so it's best to avoid smoking to maintain a healthy body.
Senior Helpers Collinsville Can Help
Osteoporosis is a serious condition and those living with the disease find it difficult to manage daily tasks, however menial. Avoiding bad habits that may contribute to or worsen the disease is essential for a better quality of life, especially for seniors. With World Osteoporosis Day approaching, anyone at risk of getting the disease should undergo screening.
For older people with Osteoporosis, Senior Helpers Collinsville can help. We provide specialized services, all done from home, to give you and them peace of mind. We serve Alton, Bethalto, Cottage Hills, East Alton, Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Granite City, Hartford, Lovejoy, Madison, Maryville, Roxana, South Roxana, Wood River, Fairview Heights, Belleville, Caseyville, Collinsville, O Fallon, Troy areas. Contact us today to get help for your older loved one.