Salamatak – Osteoporosis

Many people believe that Osteoporosis is a medical condition that developed recently due to the changes in the human lifestyle and diets. However, Osteoporosis is not a recent condition, in fact, it was found in an Egyptian mummy dating over 4000 years ago. But the actual condition was only medically diagnosed in the year 1800 by a British surgeon named John Hunter. 

Osteoporosis is not fatal in its nature. However, its symptoms and complication can significantly impact the lives of patients leading them to fatal complications. For instance, death rates increase by 15-20% during the first year of a hip fracture. In addition, 20-50% of patients who suffer from hip fractures require long-term care, and can suffer from depression, lack of confidence, and social isolation. 

If you suffer from Osteoporosis, the bones that make up your spine (vertebrae) get weaker as the condition develops and can cause height loss. This is typically the first signs that appear on Osteoporosis patients before any other symptoms. 

Just like in the case of many diseases, prevention is better than cure. The risk of developing osteoporosis can be drastically lowered if patients adopt healthier lifestyle habits, such as: 

• Ensure your diet contains all the nutrients your body needs.  
• Maintain a strong, healthy body by frequently exercising. 
• Get all the necessary health checks to find out if you have any deficiencies, especially in Calcium and Vitamin D. 
• Avoid smoking and the overconsumption of caffeine.

If you care for an elder who suffers from osteoporosis, or someone who’s at risk of developing osteoporosis; ensure their safety by following these precautionary measures: 

• Safely proof their residence by tucking rugs’ corners and removing any loose wires that someone could trip with. 
• Place a non-slip mat in the bathtub and the bathroom to avoid any accidents. 
• Install all the necessary aiding tools such as railings for the stairs, or canes where they sit. 
• Ensure they always have their glasses on, along with comfortable shoes. 
• Encourage them to regularly exercise to strengthen their bodies and enhance their balance. 
• If they consume any medications that could cause dizziness, make sure you keep them monitored at all times to avoid any injuries that could result from falls.