5 Common Complications Caused by Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis could occur due to aging as well as due to calcium deficiency. It is a condition that causes the bones to become weak as the bone density drops. As the wear and tear of the bones take place at a faster rate than usual, people with this condition should be careful about the complications arising from osteoporosis.
List of complications arising from osteoporosis:
1. Fractures are very common
When the bone density drastically drops, the main issue to worry about is the vulnerability to fractures. Sometimes, it might not be a complete fracture but a change in the shape of the bone. Some of them appear arched, like the case with the bones of the legs. When limb bones get deformed, it can result in difficulties in day-to-day activities like walking.
2. Severities during an injury
Even a minor fall can lead to major complications in people with osteoporosis. One of the most common complications arising from osteoporosis could be cracks and fractures in the hip bones or spine during a fall. Besides all these visible complications, there could also be minor deformities in the bones that severely affect a person’s mobility. Therefore, people with osteoporosis should be careful about bone injury during a fall or severe impact.
3. OA or osteoarthritis
Osteoporosis badly affects the shape and form of the bones, and osteoarthritis could be a possible complication arising from it. Joint tissues that usually protect the bone prevent damage during movements. But due to osteoporosis, it might get affected. This results in inflammation and severe pain in the joints, which are some of the most common symptoms of osteoarthritis.
4. Organ failure
In some rare cases, there could be minor fractures that go unnoticed or untreated. Due to the fractures occurring in the torso, heart and lung problems could arise. This results in cardiovascular issues and respiratory complications. Heat failure is one of the complications to look out for. This can occur due to the excess pressure added due to the damaged or broken bones. There could also be an overall compression of the abdomen region leading to discomfort.
5. Cancer of the bones
Though this is not a very common problem, osteoporosis can also open up the possibility of bone cancer. People who are already in the high-risk group for cancer should be extra careful when diagnosed with osteoporosis.
Knowledge about the complications arising from osteoporosis helps in taking preventive measures on time. From taking calcium supplements to revising the diet and fitness practices, several lifestyle changes might be recommended by doctors for people with osteoporosis. These changes help in managing the symptoms and complications and preventing them from affecting everyday activities.