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Osteopenia and the more severe osteoporosis affect one in 5 women in the United States alone. As you can see, this is a silent disease that cannot be ignored and almost everyone is prone to be a victim of it.
One of the most unfortunate parts of suffering with osteopenia and osteoporosis is that there are no external symptoms that indicate a low bone density. It takes an accident or a fracture to be determined by a medical practitioner that one is suffering from it. Osteopenia and osteoporosis means that bones are brittle and porous and therefore easily breakable. A slight bump or hitting an object can result in a fracture. In severe cases, if one just stands for a long time, the very vertebra or bone within your spinal cord can get crushed and crack, leading to severe pain and posture issues. A person suffering with osteopenia or osteoporosis generally will not have a straight posture and will have a bent back or hunch back as it is commonly called.
Hip fractures are one of the largest repercussions caused due to osteopenia and osteoporosis. Due to regular movement of an individual, the hip is more likely to bump against something or not be able to deal with the pressure of the entire spinal cord resting on it, resulting in a broken hip. Again, this is extremely painful and due to the disease itself, takes a lot of time to heal. A sad part about osteopenia and osteoporosis is that they are sometimes fatal, because a hip or other bone fracture may not cure properly or there might be a blood clot of some kind.
Osteopenia and osteoporosis affect the mind as well. One tends to get paranoid about moving around for daily activities in fear of meeting with an accident. Since all it takes is a slight bump to fracture a bone, those who suffer are not comfortable going out anywhere and prefer to stay indoors which can lead to depression as well as other health and mental issues. It is necessary to have a support system so that you know that you are not dealing with it alone and there are others to care for you and detect signs of depression in case the victim feels overwhelmed. Never try to fight your battles alone.
If you are living with osteopenia or osteoporosis on a daily basis, then first, have a positive warrior-like attitude. Know that you are not alone in this and also that there is a way out. Start living a healthy lifestyle and do not hesitate trying to get up and exercise. It might be painful and you might be scared, but exercise actually helps your bones improve and helps fight osteopenia or osteoporosis. Also, do not be callous. Keep an upright posture and do not slouch as any pressure on the spinal bones or on your hips can cause them to fracture. Make sure that your chairs and bed are soft and osteopenia or osteoporosis friendly. Wherever you go make sure that those around you are aware of your condition and that there is someone to take care of you at times when you have to move around.
Finally, consult with your doctor and research other ways for living with osteopenia or osteoporosis. It will help you live with the disease with much better ease.
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