The doctor warned about the risks of bone loss in women after 40 years

A decrease in estrogen levels after age 40 can accelerate bone loss in women and increase the risk of osteopenia and fractures. To protect the skeleton, an integrated approach is important, including diagnosis, hormonal monitoring, exercise, nutrition, and fall prevention. Yulia Krivosheeva, Candidate of Medical Sciences, neuroendocrinologist at Olympus Clinic, told Izvestia about this on June 2.

Causes of bone loss

The main factor in bone destruction in women after 40 years of age is a decrease in estrogen production. These hormones protect the skeleton by blocking the work of osteoclasts, cells that destroy bone tissue. With the onset of premenopause and menopause, the balance of hormones is disrupted, and the processes of destruction begin to prevail over the creation of new tissues.

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In the first 5-7 years of menopause, bone loss can range from 2 to 5% annually. The situation is aggravated by a decrease in progesterone levels, which inhibits skeletal renewal. Osteopenia is often asymptomatic.

Diagnostics and laboratory control

To detect the problem in a timely manner, the specialist recommends an annual medical examination. The main diagnostic method is X-ray densitometry, which allows you to measure bone density in the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Doctors also check the level of parathyroid hormone to rule out hyperparathyroidism and assess the balance of key minerals in the blood.

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Special attention is paid to the analysis of vitamin D, without which calcium is not absorbed by the body. Monitoring the level of this vitamin allows the endocrinologist to select an adequate dosage of drugs. Early detection of estrogen deficiency makes it possible to prescribe hormone replacement therapy in time to stop the loss of bone mineral density.

Prevention methods and lifestyle

Physical activity is critically important for strengthening the skeleton. Strength training with dumbbells or resistance bands stimulates bone growth, and yoga and Pilates classes improve coordination, protecting against falls. The diet should be rich in proteins, greens, fish and dairy products. At the same time, excess body weight provokes inflammation that destroys bones, and weight deficiency deprives them of the necessary mechanical load. In addition to correcting the diet, specific medications may be prescribed to slow down bone destruction.

With already reduced bone density, preventing falls becomes a key task. In everyday life, it is recommended to remove slippery carpets, fix wires, provide good lighting and use comfortable shoes. It is important to avoid sudden bends and not lift weights to minimize the risk of injury.