Bone loss

Bone Loss

Bone loss (pronunciation: /bəʊn lɒs/), also known as osteopenia, is a medical condition characterized by the decrease in bone density, which can lead to an increased risk of bone fracture.

Etymology

The term "bone loss" is derived from the English words "bone" and "loss", indicating the loss of bone mass or density. The medical term "osteopenia" is derived from the Greek words "osteon" (bone) and "penia" (poverty), indicating a condition of poor bone density.

Definition

Bone loss is a condition where the body loses more bone mass than it can regenerate. This can lead to osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become weak and brittle. Bone loss can occur as a natural part of aging, but it can also be caused by other factors such as hormonal changes, certain medications, and lack of physical activity.

Symptoms

Symptoms of bone loss may not be noticeable until the condition has progressed. However, some potential signs can include back pain, loss of height over time, a stooped posture, or a bone fracture that occurs more easily than expected.

Causes

Bone loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, and lack of physical activity. Other potential causes can include certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, and cushing's syndrome.

Treatment

Treatment for bone loss can include lifestyle changes, medication, and in some cases, surgery. Lifestyle changes can include increasing physical activity, improving diet, and quitting smoking. Medications can include bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, and calcitonin.

Related Terms

• Osteoporosis
• Osteopenia
• Bone density
• Bone fracture
• Bisphosphonates
• Calcitonin

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Bone loss
• Wikipedia's article - Bone loss

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