Smokers also may absorb less calcium from their diets. Regular consumption of 2 to 3 ounces a day of alcohol may be damaging to the skeleton, even in young women and men. Those who drink heavily are more prone to bone loss and fractures, both because of poor nutrition as well as increased risk of falling. Medications that cause bone loss. It is important to discuss the use of these drugs with your physician, and not to stop or alter your medication dose on your own.
Various medications are available for the prevention, as well as treatment, of osteoporosis.
People may not know that they have osteoporosis until their bones become so weak that a sudden strain, bump, or fall causes a hip fracture or a vertebra to collapse. Collapsed vertebra may initially be felt or seen in the form of severe back pain, loss of height, or spinal deformities such as kyphosis, or severely stooped posture. Detection Following a comprehensive medical assessment, your doctor may recommend that you have your bone mass measured. These tests are painless, noninvasive, and safe. Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis if you have already fractured.