BONE BROKENNESS (OSTEOPOROSIS)
Osteoporosis is a disease that affects bone structure and leads to an increased risk of fractures. At Medicus, we offer assessment and treatment of osteoporosis with our experienced endocrinologist. You do not need a referral and we have short waiting times.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis, also known as oosteoporosis, is a bone disease characterized by low bone density and deterioration of bone structure, which leads to an increased risk of fractures. The disease makes the skeleton weaker so that you break your legs with small loads such as falling from your own height.
The condition often develops without symptoms and is often called a “silent” disease because many people are not aware they have it until they experience a fracture. The most common fractures are in the forearm, upper arm, vertebrae and hips. Rib fractures also occur more frequently with osteoporosis. Both women and men are affected by the disease, but it occurs more often in women.
Symptoms of osteoporosis
Most early stages of osteoporosis have no obvious symptoms. As the condition progresses, someone may experience:
- Reduction in height over time.
- Sudden, unexplained back pain.
- A tendency to break bones more easily than normal.
Who is at risk of developing osteoporosis?
The incidence of osteoporosis increases with age in both women and men. However, young people should also be aware, as there are various factors that increase the risk of osteoporosis:
Older adults: The risk of osteoporosis increases with age in both women and men. Especially in women after menopause due to the loss of estrogen. One in two women and one in four men over the age of 50 will have an osteoporotic fracture.
People with low body weight: Those with a low body mass index (BMI) are more susceptible to bone loss.
Person who has used certain medications: Long-term use of steroids or other medications such as cortisone can affect bone mass.
People with previous leg fractures: Those who have had fractures that may be related to weak bones. If you have had a low-energy fracture, there is a high risk of another fracture within a year. It is therefore important to start treatment quickly to prevent the next fracture.
People with certain medical conditions: There are a number of conditions that make you susceptible to osteoporosis, such as:
- Eating disorder
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Diseases of the stomach and intestines
- Diabetes
- Hypogonadism (estrogen deficiency or testosterone deficiency)
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Cushing's syndrome
- Rheumatological diseases
- Neurological diseases
Consequences of osteoporosis
Fractures can have many consequences, especially hip fractures and vertebral fractures, which lead to increased morbidity and mortality. A hip fracture can cause lasting pain, loss of independence – and in the worst case, reduced lifespan. Back fractures often cause chronic pain and reduced quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis significantly reduces the risk.
Evaluation and treatment for osteoporosis (bone weakness)
Osteoporosis screening is an important part of understanding bone health and preventing possible fractures. At Medicus, you will receive a thorough and safe examination.
1. Appointment for consultation
During the consultation, your medical history will be reviewed, including previous fractures, family history of osteoporosis, lifestyle habits (such as smoking and alcohol consumption), and use of medications that may affect bone mass. The endocrinologist will assess whether further tests are needed after the consultation.
2. Bone density measurement
To get a comprehensive picture of your bone health, we combine blood tests with a DXA scan. The blood tests provide valuable information about possible underlying causes of bone loss, even though they do not measure bone density directly. We analyze, among other things, the levels of calcium, vitamin D, TSH, PTH, testosterone, estradiol, osteocalcin and CTX. To measure the actual bone density, we refer you to a DXA scan with our partner Evidia, which can identify any reductions in bone mass.
3. ANALYSIS OF RESULTS
After we have received the results from the blood tests and DXA scan, our endocrinologist will evaluate the results.
4. TREATMENT AND FURTHER FOLLOW-UP
After an assessment of the results, you will be followed up with further treatment. The treatment is individually tailored and includes medication, dietary advice with calcium and vitamin D supplements, and exercise. The goal is to strengthen the skeleton and prevent fractures.
Private endocrinologist – no waiting time
Our experienced endocrinologist Unni Syversen is one of the leading experts in the country on osteoporosis. She can assess whether you have osteoporosis or whether you are at risk of developing the disease. She can advise you on osteoporosis prevention and tailor treatment to your needs.
Get help from experienced experts – book an appointment for an assessment of osteoporosis
With us, you can get an appointment quickly and without a referral for osteoporosis screening.
You can easily book a time that suits you via our online booking.
