Bone Resorption in Menopause

Relationship between Menopause and Osteoporosis

With the decrease in estrogen levels during menopause, women experience some negative effects on bone health such as osteoporosis.

Estrogen and Bone Health

The hormone estrogen is critical for bone health. This hormone plays an important role in the process of bone formation and breakdown:

- Bone Building and Bone Destruction: Bone is a tissue that is constantly being renewed. The balance between bone building (osteoblasts) and bone destruction (osteoclasts) maintains healthy bone density. Estrogen helps maintain this balance by reducing bone breakdown.

- Calcium Absorption: Estrogen increases calcium absorption from the intestines and promotes the storage of calcium in the bones.

Effects of Menopause

As estrogen levels fall during menopause, the following effects occur:

- Increased Bone Destruction: Estrogen deficiency causes accelerated bone breakdown, leading to a decrease in bone density.

- Bone Loss: In the first 5-7 years after menopause, women can lose 20-30% of their bone mass.

- Risk of Osteoporosis: The decrease in bone density leads to more fragile bones and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis means weakening of the bones and an increased risk of fracture.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis often progresses without obvious symptoms and often goes unnoticed until a bone fracture occurs. When symptoms do occur, they may include

- Back pain

- Short stature and poor posture

- Bones that break easily

A bone mineral density (BMD) test, usually a DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan, is used to diagnose osteoporosis.

Methods to Prevent and Manage Osteoporosis

There are various strategies and treatments available to maintain bone health during and after menopause:

1. Nutrition

- Calcium: Adequate calcium intake is critical for bone health. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, almonds and calcium supplements are good sources.

- Vitamin D: Vitamin D improves the absorption of calcium. Sunlight, oily fish and supplements are good sources of vitamin D.

- Protein: Adequate protein intake is also important for bone health.

2. Regular Exercise

- Weight bearing exercises: Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, jogging and dancing increase bone density.

- Resistance Exercises: Exercises such as lifting weights and using resistance bands promote bone health by increasing muscle mass.

3. Lifestyle Changes

- Smoking and Alcohol: Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is beneficial for bone health.

- Reducing the Risk of Falling: It is important to take safety precautions to reduce the risk of falls at home.

4. Medical Treatment

- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Estrogen therapy can slow bone loss and increase bone density.

- Osteoporosis Drugs: Bisphosphonates, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and other osteoporosis medications can be used to reduce bone loss and lower the risk of fractures.

To maintain bone health during menopause, it is important to have regular medical check-ups and monitor bone density. Individualized treatment and prevention strategies should be determined