Everything About Osteoporosis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, And Health Insurance

Osteoporosis is a disease that affects bone density, making individuals more vulnerable to fractures. While it can occur at any age, older adults are more prone to this condition. Women who have entered menopause and the elderly are particularly at a high risk of developing osteoporosis. In India, osteoporosis is common among women above the age of 50. According to a survey conducted in 2015, at least 20% of women in India have osteoporosis. Similar studies have also reported the prevalence of osteoporosis in India among women ranging from 8% to 60%.

Treatment for osteoporosis typically focuses on reducing bone density loss and rebuilding strength. It can include lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes even medical procedures to manage this condition. Early detection and management are crucial for minimising the impact of osteoporosis and improving the quality of life.

Find out everything about osteoporosis, including symptoms, causes, treatments, and health insurance, to stay prepared –

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by a decrease in bone density and quality, leading to an increased risk of fractures. It causes bones to become brittle, making them more prone to breaking, even from minor stress or trauma.

This condition develops quite slowly over time, and osteoporosis symptoms may not even be noticeable until a fracture occurs. This is also why it is often referred to as a “silent disease”. Osteoporosis is more common in older adults, particularly postmenopausal women, but it can affect anyone at any age.

Osteoporosis Symptoms

Osteoporosis symptoms can be a little tricky to identify. This is because symptoms are rarely noticeable during the early stages of the disease.

If you are over the age of 30 years, here are some symptoms of osteoporosis you should watch out for –

• Loss of height
• Bone fractures
• Back pain
• Stooped or hunched posture

Causes Of Osteoporosis

Various factors can play a role in the development of osteoporosis symptoms –

• Age – As people age, bone density naturally decreases, making bones weaker and more susceptible to fractures.
• Hormonal Changes – Women entering menopause may experience various hormonal changes and imbalances, potentially affecting their estrogen levels and increasing vulnerability to this disease. Similarly, men with low testosterone levels are at heightened risk of developing osteoporosis.  
• Genetics – Several research studies have suggested that genetics play a significant role in the development of osteoporosis. Anyone with a family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture is at an increased risk of developing this disease. 
• Nutritional Deficiencies – Inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can weaken bones. Calcium is essential for bone health, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.

Osteoporosis Treatments

Doctors typically recommend osteoporosis treatments after assessing the risk of bone fractures over the next decade, based on data from multiple bone density tests.

Some medicines which are prescribed as a part of the treatment of osteoporosis in high-risk patients include –

• Bisphosphonates – These are drugs usually prescribed to patients to reduce bone loss. 
• Denosumab – This is another type of drug that is prescribed to people with osteoporosis to reduce bone loss.
• Hormone-Related Therapy – Certain hormonal therapies, such as estrogen therapy for women and testosterone therapy for men, can help in maintaining bone density levels.
• Bone-Building Medicines – If none of these treatments for osteoporosis work on the patient, doctors may recommend certain bone-building drugs.

Health Insurance For Osteoporosis

Health insurance can be invaluable, especially when faced with numerous consultations and diagnostic tests. Choosing the right health insurance can offer a sense of reassurance. In India, the treatment for osteoporosis can cost anywhere between 500 – 2000 and more depending on medications or injections prescribed by the physician. There is no fixed amount, as the cost may differ from one hospital to another. 

Insurance for osteoporosis patients ensures access to necessary treatment without financial concerns. In terms of health insurance, two types of claims can be made:

• Cashless Settlement – Cashless health insurance for osteoporosis allows policyholders to receive medical treatment without having to pay out-of-pocket expenses at network hospitals. Instead, the insurance provider settles the bill directly with the hospital, offering convenience and financial relief to the insured individual.
• Reimbursement – The reimbursement facility in health insurance allows policyholders to pay for medical expenses upfront and claim reimbursement later from their insurance provider.

What Should You Keep in Mind Before Purchasing Insurance for Osteoporosis Patients? 

Don’t forget to check these details when you are purchasing health insurance for osteoporosis –

• Cover amount
• Policy benefits
• Policy exclusion
• Waiting period

Knowing these details will help you make an informed decision and be prepared with all the necessary information in an emergency.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments of osteoporosis can go a long way in identifying the disease on time. With the right health insurance, you can also prepare yourself with all the resources essential to battle against such diseases. Health insurance for osteoporosis allows you to secure the future, both in terms of health as well as finances and you can choose platforms like PhonePe for a seamless and hassle-free experience.