Symptoms of early-stage of osteoporosis
Early indications of bone loss are typically uncommon, with many individuals unaware of weak bones until experiencing a fracture, such as in the hip or wrist. Nonetheless, certain signs and symptoms may suggest potential bone loss:
- Receding gums: jaw bone loss can cause gums to recede.
- Weaker grip strength: research indicates a correlation between low handgrip strength and low bone mineral density, increasing the risk of falls.
- Weak and brittle fingernails: nail strength may reflect bone health, although other factors like environmental exposures or nail care practices should also be considered.
Symptoms of later-stage osteoporosis
As bone mass and bone quality continues to decline, more noticeable symptoms may arise, including:
- Loss of height: compression fractures in the spine can lead to a reduction in height, making it one of the most conspicuous indications of osteoporosis.
- Fractures from minor incidents: fragile bones are susceptible to fractures, which can occur even from minor movements like stepping off a curb or a forceful sneeze or cough.
- Back or neck pain: compression fractures in the spine can cause significant pain as collapsed vertebrae may compress nerves, resulting in symptoms ranging from mild tenderness to severe discomfort.
- Stooped posture or curvature of the spine: the compression of vertebrae can cause a curvature of the upper back known as kyphosis. This can lead to back and neck pain and may even affect breathing due to increased pressure on the airway and restricted lung expansion.
Consulting with a doctor or healthcare provider, especially if there’s a family history of osteoporosis, is crucial for osteoporosis detection and management.
