New Delhi: Bones serve various bodily functions, including giving structure, protecting organs, attaching muscles, and storing calcium. Made of living tissue, bones constantly remodel themselves, breaking down old bones and forming new bones. As we age, bone breakdown can exceed new bone formation, reducing bone density—a measure of minerals like calcium in bone. Low bone density weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures. If bone loss becomes severe, it can lead to osteoporosis, a condition where bones become fragile and prone to breaking.
In an interview with News9Live, Dr. Deepak Kumar Mishra, Director and head of orthopedics at Asian Hospital, Faridabad, explained how chronic conditions can affect bone density.
What can make you lose bone density?
As you age, your bones lose density. Other factors might increase your chances of losing bone mass. Chronic inflammatory conditions are commonly linked to loss of bone density. The processes behind bone loss are complicated and interconnected. These pathways, however, appear to be mediated via impacts on the bone remodeling cycle.
Autoimmune illnesses have been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Chronic inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases can damage and impair bone density, leaving it more vulnerable to fractures.
Malabsorption syndromes, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or weight loss surgery, reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. likewise, sex hormone deficiency, seen in conditions like early menopause or low testosterone levels in men, can also lead to bone loss. In primary hyperparathyroidism, a tumor in the parathyroid glands causes an overproduction of parathyroid hormone, which accelerates bone turnover and increases calcium release from bones, raising the risk of osteoporosis.
Both chronic liver disease and chronic kidney disease can cause your bones to become weak. Kidney disease often results in bone quality deterioration and may involve hormone imbalances or vitamin D deficiency. Similarly, liver disease can lower vitamin D levels and reduce bone formation, making bones more fragile. Diabetes, especially poorly controlled type 1 and type 2 diabetes, is linked to low bone density and a higher risk of fractures due to complications like neuropathy and hypoglycemic episodes.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), often linked to smoking, can reduce bone mass due to a combination of factors like poor nutrition and long-term medication use. Untreated hyperthyroidism leads to excessive thyroid hormones, interfering with calcium absorption and causing bone loss. Finally, neurological disorders like stroke or multiple sclerosis increase the risk of fractures, either by causing immobility or through other mechanisms that weaken bones. These conditions highlight the importance of maintaining bone health, especially for individuals with chronic diseases.
Keeping your bones healthy is easier than you think
Make sure you eat a healthy and balanced diet with plenty of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients that are vital for strong bones. For adults ages 19 to 50 and men ages 51 to 70, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 1,000 milligrams (mg) of calcium a day. Make sure to remain physically active and remember to incorporate weight-bearing exercises like running, walking, or strength training in your routine to strengthen your bones. Pay attention to your weight and work to maintain a healthy weight as it reduces stress on bones and joints and might delay degeneration. Avoid smoking and drinking too much alcohol. These two habits aggravate joint weakness and bone loss. Finally, protect your joints by avoiding activities that place too much strain on them. To avoid injury, make sure you use proper form and equipment when engaging in physical activities.
Both chronic liver disease and chronic kidney disease can cause your bones to become weak. Kidney disease often results in bone quality deterioration and may involve hormone imbalances or vitamin D deficiency. Similarly, liver disease can lower vitamin D levels and reduce bone formation, making bones more fragile. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
