Osteoporosis: when a sneeze can break your bones

In Spain more than three million people suffer from osteoporosis. Yes, you read it right. As a consequence, fractures associated with osteoporosis reach up to 330,000 cases, which, if you put a quick number, is equivalent to…. a fracture every 2 minutes! And, not to be a spoilsport, but it seems that the worst is yet to come: by 2034, an increase of around 30% in the number of fractures is expected.

While the numbers rise, paradoxically, osteoporosis continues to be one of the great forgotten diseases. For this reason, this week World Osteoporosis Day was celebrated and one of the main objectives is for us to learn to identify the warning signs in order to detect it as soon as possible and take action..

What is osteoporosis?

It is a chronic and progressive disease that causes bones to become more porous and more brittle.. This makes them more likely to break even if the blows or impacts received are minor.. One of the main problems is that the disease does not usually show its face until the first fracture occurs.. And here comes the important thing: if it is not remedied, a second fracture may appear that deteriorates the quality of life of the person who suffers it..

Is it true that when we are older we fall because “we are more clumsy”?

As age advances, we tend to associate falls and fractures with the fact that over the years we “lose faculties”. However, this may also be because the bones have silently been losing bone mass and becoming weaker.. It is surprising to know that in these cases even a slight impact, such as a cough or sneeze, can cause a fracture..

In which part of the body are fractures most common as a result of osteoporosis?

They can occur in any bone, but the most common areas are the wrists, hips, or vertebrae of the spine..

Hip fracture: before and after

A hip fracture can completely disrupt the pace of life of the patient and their entire family.. There are some data that should make us reflect on the importance of prevention:

• One year after a hip fracture, most patients are not able to carry out daily activities such as going to the market or driving..
• After a hip fracture, 40% of patients cannot walk without assistance and 60% require assistance one year later.
• And the most serious thing: around 20% of patients die after a hip fracture, the majority during the first year.

Beyond fractures: mental health

When someone breaks a bone they lose mobility and independence. Overnight you see how your work and leisure plans change…. and, therefore, how their quality of life worsens. It is common that in the face of this scenario, which is also unexpected, people suffer from anxiety, depression or loss of self-esteem.. And very important! This does not end with the patient but also has an impact on the entire family nucleus because “changes in plans” can affect the rest of the members.. For example, with the cancellation of vacations or weekend plans, causing problems in family logistics, etc..

When fractures don't come alone….

As we have already mentioned, the cause of many fractures is osteoporosis and not the possible “clumsiness” of the person.. For this reason, it is very possible that after a first fracture, others appear in any other part of our body.. The statistics are devastating: a woman who has already suffered a fracture due to osteoporosis is up to 5 times more likely to suffer another one after a year..

What can we do to fight osteoporosis?

The key is to see a specialist after suffering a fracture. It is not only essential to diagnose osteoporosis early, but also to establish adequate treatment.. This helps reduce the risk of suffering successive fractures and improve the quality of life of the patient and their entire family.. And remember! One of the best ways to prevent osteoporosis is to keep your bones strong by watching your diet and doing strength training.