A diet that includes an adequate amount of calcium, vitamin D , and protein should be maintained. This will not completely stop bone loss, however it will guarantee that a supply of the materials the body uses for bone formation and maintenance is available. Women who are taking estrogen should have routine mammograms, pelvic exams, and Pap smears as recommended. Patient response to treatment can be monitored with a new urine test, Osteomark, which received FDA approval in May of 1995. Progression of the disease can sometimes be slowed or stopped with treatment.
Some people become severely disabled as a result of weakened bones.
This is one of the major reasons people are admitted to nursing homes. Although osteoporosis is debilitating, it does not affect life expectancy. Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of osteoporosis or if you are interested in testing available for diagnosis or early detection. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.