Are You at Risk for Bone Fractures?
Are You at Risk for Bone Fractures?
Why It Matters
Glucocorticoid medications, commonly used for treating inflammatory diseases, can increase your risk of bone fractures. Learn what factors contribute to this risk and how you can manage it.
Contents
- Understanding Fracture Risk
- Additional Risk Factors
- Managing Your Risk
Understanding Fracture Risk
Patients on glucocorticoid therapy face a heightened risk of fractures, especially in the spine. This risk emerges rapidly and often at higher bone density levels than seen in other forms of osteoporosis. Factors like age, dosage, and treatment duration further elevate this risk.
Additional Risk Factors
Other contributing factors include low body mass index, a history of fractures, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also play a role in increasing fracture risk.
Managing Your Risk
To manage fracture risk, consider lifestyle changes and medical evaluations. Regular check-ups and bone density tests can help identify those at high risk early, allowing for preventive treatments.
FAQs
Who is most at risk for fractures?
Older adults on long-term glucocorticoid therapy are most at risk.
Can lifestyle changes reduce fracture risk?
Yes, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol can help lower risk.
How does glucocorticoid dosage affect risk?
Higher doses and longer durations increase fracture risk significantly.
What is the role of medical evaluations?
They help identify high-risk individuals for timely intervention.
Wrapping Up
Being proactive about fracture risk can safeguard your bone health for the future.
Additional References
- Kanis JA, Johansson H, Oden A, et al. A meta-analysis of prior corticosteroid use and fracture risk. J Bone Miner Res 2004; 19:893.
- Curtis JR, Westfall AO, Allison J, et al. Population-based assessment of adverse events associated with long-term glucocorticoid use. Arthritis Rheum 2006; 55:420.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.