Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and brittle. Because of this, even a small fall or mild stress, such as bending or coughing, can cause a bone to break. Fractures related to osteoporosis most often happen in the hip, wrist, or spine.

Bones are living tissue. They are constantly being broken down and replaced. Osteoporosis develops when new bone is not made fast enough to replace old bone that is lost.

Osteoporosis can affect both men and women of all races. Medicines, a healthy diet, and regular weight-bearing exercise can help prevent bone loss and make weak bones stronger.

How is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?

Osteoporosis is diagnosed using a bone mineral density (BMD) test. This test uses a special X-ray to check how strong your bones are. The result is shown as a T-score.

  • If your T-score is –2.5 or lower, your doctor will diagnose osteoporosis.

  • A higher T-score means your bones are healthier.

Osteoporosis is a bone condition that occurs when the body does not make enough new bone to replace old bone, which increases the risk of fractures. The risk of osteoporosis increases with factors such as low hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone in women and testosterone in men), low body weight, aging, and other medical conditions. Osteoporosis is more common in older adults and affects women more than men, with higher cases seen among Asian and Caucasian women worldwide. 

If you are looking for an osteoporosis diagnosis in London, Medicare Medical Center offers professional osteoporosis diagnosis and treatment services in Waterloo.

Causes and Risk Factors

Osteoporosis happens when the body does not make enough new bone to replace old bone. Several factors can increase the risk, including:

  • Low hormone levels (estrogen in women, testosterone in men)

  • Low body weight

  • Aging

  • Vitamin D or calcium deficiency

  • Other medical conditions

Osteoporosis is more common in older adults and is seen more often in women.

Signs and Symptoms of Osteoporosis

Many people do not notice symptoms until a fracture occurs. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • Frequent bone fractures

  • Bent or stooped posture

  • Loss of height over time

  • Long-lasting lower back pain

  • Bone pain

  • Joint pain

  • Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis Tests for Osteoporosis

Doctors may use the following tests to find the cause and severity of osteoporosis:

1. Blood Tests

Blood tests help identify conditions that affect bone health. These may include tests for:

  • Calcium levels

  • Vitamin D deficiency

  • Thyroid function

  • Kidney function

  • Electrolytes

  • Rheumatoid factor

  • Protein levels

2. Bone Resorption Marker Tests

These tests measure how fast bone is being broken down. They may be done before and after treatment to monitor bone loss. Common bone resorption markers include:

  • C-telopeptide

  • Deoxypyridinoline

  • Pyridinium crosslinks

  • Urinary hydroxyproline

  • Urinary collagen type-I cross-linked telopeptide

  • Bone sialoprotein

Osteoporosis Diagnosis in London