Introduction
Osteoporosis is a disease that affects bones and occurs when the internal structure of a person’s bone becomes increasingly porous (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). It reduces the bone’s resistance to resisting fractures and tension, increasing the risk of breaking, compressing, and otherwise receiving damage (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). This disease is increasingly common in the US and the world, with approximately 54 million US citizens being affected by it (Yedavally-Yellaty et al., 2018). The purpose of this paper is to review the common symptoms, treatments, diagnostics, as well as matters concerning prevention and patient education.
Common Symptoms
Common symptoms of osteoporosis are few and are generally easy to identify. The primary indicators include back pain and a loss of height over time – this condition is caused by fractured and collapsing vertebrae (Rossini et al., 2016). As a result of the progression of the disease, individuals tend to have a stooped posture. Finally, osteoporosis results in increased vulnerability toward fractures, resulting in frequent trauma (Rossini et al., 2016).
Recommended Diagnostic Tests
The primary method to diagnose osteoporosis is the bone density test (BDT), which may be ordered by the treating physician following a fracture (Rossini et al., 2016). It is commonly performed using DXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) machines and measures the mineral density of bones (Rossini et al., 2016). Some of the common tests run as part of the BDT include bone x-ray as well as CT and MRI scans of the spine (Rossini et al., 2016). These measures allow for the detection of osteoporosis, evaluate the stage it is in, and assess the likelihood of fractures occurring.
Common Treatments
Osteoporosis is typically treated with medications that aim to address various aspects of the disease in a particular patient. Bisphosphonates, such as Alendronate or Risedronate, are given to patients with an increased risk of fractures (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). Monoclonal antibody medications, such as Denosumab, provide effects similar to bisphosphonates, improving the overall bone density and reducing the chances of fracture (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). Hormone-related therapy, utilizing estrogen or testosterone, allows for improving bone density in patients with naturally low levels of either and is frequently implemented in older patients (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). Finally, bone-building medications, such as Teriparatide or Romosozumab, stimulate new bone growth, which is useful in augmenting other treatments (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). Should the patient’s osteoporosis levels be manageable, medication treatments can be avoided altogether in favor of healthier diets, exercising, and avoiding falls.
Options for Primary Prevention
Primary prevention of osteoporosis is possible and lies with the adoption of a healthy lifestyle. Some of the suggestions include having a healthy diet with plenty of calcium-rich foods and vitamin D (Yedavally-Yellaty et al., 2018). These include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which contain the required elements. Additional prevention interventions can be aimed at reducing smoking and limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption (Yedavally-Yellaty et al., 2018). Finally, practicing sports and performing weight-bearing and strength-training exercises can reduce the risk of osteoporosis (Yedavally-Yellaty et al., 2018).
Patient Education
Patient education on osteoporosis should focus on preventative measures as well as necessary treatments associated with old age. Preventative advice is to offer strategies for healthy dieting and exercise (Rossini et al., 2016). Medication info must include the list of drugs that could be prescribed, their doses, and times of administration. Finally, nurses should provide fall-prevention information and practice to patients, with a specific focus on fall safety measures at home (Rossini et al., 2016). According to statistics, over 80% of osteoporosis-related fractures happen at home due to a loss of balance (Rossini et al., 2016). The informational pamphlets should contain a list of approved sources where patients can find information on their own. Comprehensive patient education can increase the effectiveness of treatments and reduce the effects of the disease on the general populace.
References
Akkawi, I., & Zmerly, H. (2018). Osteoporosis: Current concepts. Joints, 6(2), 122-127.
Rossini, M., Adami, S., Bertoldo, F., Diacinti, D., Gatti, D., Giannini, S.,… & Isaia, G. C. (2016). Guidelines for the diagnosis, prevention and management of osteoporosis. Reumatismo, 68(1), 1-39.
Yedavally-Yellayi, S., Ho, A. M., & Patalinghug, E. M. (2018). Update on osteoporosis. Primary Care, 46(1), 175-190.