Causes of osteoporosis

Different people have different pattern of bone reformation and resorbing, this is the reason why doctor are persuaded that there are different causes of osteoporosis possible.

Any significant changes in such important chemicals as estrogen, testosterone, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, calcium, as well as blood factors, may result in osteoporosis.

Sex hormones are among the usual osteoporosis causes both in men and in women. After the menopause a substantial and sudden decrease of bone density occurs. The responsible chemical for this process is estrogen, because the production of it stops.

For men testosterone is the most important hormone, which is converted into estrogen in different parts of a man’s body, including the bones. Studies have shown that the loss in both estrogen and testosterone in elderly men contribute to bone loss, and they both seem to be integral to bone function.

A low vitamin D and calcium level is also what causes osteoporosis. Vitamin D is the vitamin that is much like a hormone. It is responsible for normal absorption of calcium and for the bone growth as well. If there is a vitamin D deficiency, the calcium absorption becomes impaired, which triggers an increase in parathyroid hormone levels.

Parathyroid gland produces the parathyroid hormone. On the thyroid gland surface four smaller glands are located; these glands are the most significant instruments in regulating the levels of calcium in blood. If the level of calcium is low, the glands stimulate a higher production of parathyroid hormone. It increases then the calcium levels in blood, which may result in bone loss.

Genetic factors are also the known causes of osteoporosis. If your parents or siblings have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, of if there is a family history of bone fracture; you are more likely to develop this condition too.

Certain drugs, such as corticosteroid ones, that are being commonly used to treat different types of disorders may reduce bone mass in men and women. It is not proven yet whether inhaled steroids are as dangerous, but some of the studies show that they may result in substantial bone loss when taken for long periods of time and at high doses. Children, who are on inhaled steroids, such as to treat asthma, may experience a temporary impairment in growth, but they do not seem to have the bone loss risk.

Depending on the type of the disorder, diuretics may also be the causes of osteoporosis. Diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure. Such loop diuretic as furosemide, or Lasix may increase the excretion of calcium in the kidneys, and as a result cause bone loss. However, thiazide diuretics, have an opposite effect, they protect bones from thinning, but this effect only takes place while the medication is taken, once it’s stopped, no such effect is further present.

The loss of bone density may also be provoked by hormonal contraceptives that use estrogen and progestin, such as Depo-Provera injection, for instance.

And finally, such conditions as alcoholism, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, epilepsy, and a number of others may also increase the chances of developing osteoporosis.