The Doc is in. Dr. Amy Fendrich answers your health, medical and wellness questions
Member: At my last annual wellness exam, I noticed that I’ve lost some height. Is that normal or something I should be concerned about? —Susan, Two Harbors
Dr. Fendrich: Thank you so much for your question, Susan. It can be hard to tell if changes to our bodies are simply aging or something more serious. Loss of height is a common symptom of osteoporosis, a condition that causes the bones to soften or become brittle. It most commonly affects women over the age of 65.
“The only way to know if you have osteoporosis is to do a bone density test.”
Osteoporosis is often described as bone loss, and it happens when the body can’t make new bone tissue at the same rate that it loses old bone tissue. In the early stages of osteoporosis, you might not have any symptoms, but as bone loss progresses, you may notice loss of height, posture issues, back pain or even a broken bone.
The only way to know if you have osteoporosis is to do a bone density test. This screening uses low-dose X-rays to measure the density of the bones in the hip and spine.
If you have osteoporosis, there are a variety of medications that can help. Typically, a group of drugs called bisphosphonates, which reduce the rate of bone loss, are the first course of action. They are available in many forms, such as a weekly or monthly pill. Some people aren’t able to tolerate bisphosphonates — it’s best to talk with your doctor about what medication is best for you.
Any osteoporosis treatment plan should include lifestyle changes or commitments as well. Eating a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, exercising, quitting smoking and reducing or eliminating alcohol are all important ways to slow, or prevent, osteoporosis.
Email Ask the Doctor at: thrivemagazine@bluecrossmn.com.