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There are primary and secondary causes of osteoporosis. |
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Primary
causes of osteoporosis include genetics (hereditary conditions) and/or
bone loss associated with menopause and advanced age. |
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There
are also lifestyle factors that can contribute to primary osteoporosis.
These include eating a poor diet especially if it is low in calcium and/or
vitamin D, getting too little physical activity, smoking or using
tobacco products, and drinking excessive amounts of alcoholic beverages. |
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Osteoporosis as a result of primary causes can occur in both men and women of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. |
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It
occurs most often in individuals of Caucasian or Asian decent, after
menopause in women, and later in life (in the older years) in men. |
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Secondary
causes of osteoporosis include certain diseases, medical conditions,
and/or medications that interfere with reaching peak bone mass and/or
cause bone loss. |
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The
treatment of secondary osteoporosis is often complicated and depends
upon the underlying condition/disease. It is very important to consult
a
health care provider and if possible to treat the underlying cause of
osteoporosis. |
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In
cases of bone loss caused by medication, speak to your health care provider to find out if there is another medication available
to effectively treat your condition that does not cause bone loss. |
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If
there is not a bone-sparing medication, it is suggested that you speak
to your health care provider about taking the lowest dose of medication
necessary for the shortest period of time required to treat your
condition. If you have osteoporosis that is secondary to your
condition, it is important for your health care provider to closely
monitor your bone density. If he or she prescribes an osteoporosis
medication, it is important to take it as directed. |
