For example, it helps deposit calcium in the bones. Low levels of estrogen cause a weakening of the bones. Women who smoke or are physically inactive are at a greater risk of developing osteoporosis as they grow older. Too little calcium in the diet or a family history of osteoporosis are other risk factors. You may have no symptoms until a bone breaks.
Broken bones are the most common problem for people with osteoporosis.
Often it's the hip, arm, or wrist that breaks. The bones of the spine are also a common area of thinning. Your health care provider may discover you have osteoporosis from an x-ray taken for some other problem. Otherwise, the diagnosis might be made from a review of your medical history and symptoms, a physical exam, x-rays, and blood tests. If you are in a high-risk category, your provider may order tests that measure the density of the bones in your forearm, spine, or heel.