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Osteoporosis (Weak Bones)
Osteoporosis is when bones become thin and fragile, so they break more easily. It is often silent until a fracture, and is common after menopause and in older age.
Causes & risk factors
- Falling oestrogen after menopause
- Increasing age
- Low calcium and vitamin D intake
- Long-term steroid use
- Smoking, heavy alcohol and low body weight
- Overactive thyroid or parathyroid disease
Common symptoms
- Often no symptoms until a fracture
- Back pain from a spine fracture
- Loss of height over time
- Stooped posture
- Fractures from minor falls
Tests & diagnosis
- DEXA bone density scan
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Thyroid function (TFT)
- X-ray (for fractures)
Treatment & management
- Adequate calcium and vitamin D through diet or supplements
- Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise
- Bone-protecting medicines (such as bisphosphonate category) when indicated
- Fall-prevention measures at home
- Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol
When to see a doctor urgently
- A fracture after a minor fall or knock
- New or worsening back pain with height loss
- Postmenopausal women or older adults with risk factors
- Long-term steroid use
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about osteoporosis (weak bones). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Mainly by a DEXA bone density scan, often with blood tests for calcium, vitamin D and thyroid. Sometimes it is found after an unexpected fracture.
Can osteoporosis be prevented?
Largely yes — with enough calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercise, not smoking, and treating risk factors early.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.