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Comprehensive Overview of Osteoporosis Risks, Diagnosis and Treatment
Osteoporosis is a disease that has seen a surge in recent times. It is a disease characterized by reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone structure and architecture. Based on the four patients listed, the one with the least likelihood of being at risk for osteoporosis is Nehineza. The first factor that hints toward this is the fact that she is overweight (Sabri et al., 2023). For the body to support large amounts of weight, it often increases bone mass to the maximum due to the weight they have to carry. This situation also comes with a high production of estrogen, which is a protective factor against osteoporosis.
It is also important to consider that the other patients also have factors that increase the risk of the illness. Cristina has a sedentary lifestyle, which increases the chance of developing the disease (Sabri et al., 2023). Park-Gim-Ka has low body weight and smokes, while Skyler is in the early stages of menopause. All of these are factors that increase the chances of developing the illness.
Densitometry shows the strength of the bones, with a T-score of 0 to -1.0 being normal. On the other hand, anything between the range of -1.1 and -2.5 means that the bones are getting weaker and thinner. This is often a sign of osteopenia (Foessi et al., 2023). In this case, the medical staff can begin to introduce certain interventions to strengthen the bones, including abstinence from alcohol and smoking, with an increased calcium and vitamin D intake. If the T-scores of the densitometry show a score of less than -2.5, it is a definitive sign that the person has developed osteoporosis, where the interventions are more stringent and include medications along with strict lifestyle changes (Foessi et al., 2023).
In the treatment of osteoporosis, the first-line of treatment with regard to medication is bisphosphonates. These medications slow bone loss by stopping osteoclast-mediated bone resorption (Chen et al., 2024). This aids in maintaining bone density. However, there are a variety of considerations to take into account before administering these medications. The first is the kidney function. Bisphosphonates are not recommended for patients with kidney issues (Chen et al., 2024). In addition, it is important to consider the esophageal and dental health, as these medications can hurt the teeth and irritate the esophagus.
The recommendations for patients on these medications are to take the medications first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with strictly water, nothing else (Chen et al., 2024). The patient must not eat, drink, or take any other medications for at least forty minutes. The patient should try to stay upright to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. They should also stay in line with their exercise routine and take enough calcium and vitamin D. Need Assignment Help?