Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that is characterized by bone loss and weakening, making bones more likely to break or fracture.

Bones constantly change throughout your life. When you are younger, you tend to have more bone density, which means you have more minerals, and strength, in your bones. Certain bone cells dissolve when you are young, but they generally grow back in abundance. When you grow older or other factors, such as low calcium levels, arise in your body you may have less bone density, or weaker bones.

This can lead to osteoporosis.

Anyone can be diagnosed with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is generally diagnosed after the age of 50, and women are more likely than men to have the condition. [1] But men tend to have worse outcomes after fractures that result from osteoporosis. [2]

Numerous factors can make you more at risk of osteoporosis, including family history, hormone levels, dietary factors, and other medical conditions. [1]

Common symptoms of osteoporosis include: [1]

• Back pain
• Stooped posture
• Loss of height over time
• Bone fractures or broken bones

In early stages of osteoporosis, there are generally no noticeable symptoms. But as the condition progresses, you may experience the above symptoms.

To prevent osteoporosis, you should make sure you are getting the proper nutrients and exercising regularly.

It is important to get an accurate diagnosis as quickly as possible to make sure that the condition does not worsen. The best way to do this is by visiting your doctor and, if possible, getting a referral to a specialized care provider. Some doctors that specifically treat osteoporosis are internists, endocrinologists, rheumatologists, and geriatricians.

Some ways that your doctor can assess whether you have the condition is through a physical examination, medical history assessment, or bone density test.