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Early in the course of the disease, osteoporosis may cause no symptoms. Later, it may cause dull pain in the bones or muscles, particularly low back pain or neck pain.Later in the course of the disease, sharp pains may come on suddenly. It may not radiate; it may be made worse by activity that puts weight on the area, may be tender, and generally begins to subside in 1 week. Pain may linger more than 3 months. People with osteoporosis may not even recall a fall or other trauma that might cause a broken bone, such as in the spine. Spinal compression fractures may result in loss of height with a stooped posture (called a dowager's hump).Fractures at other sites, commonly the hip or bones of the wrist, usually result from a fall.
If you are unable to get enough calcium through your diet, your doctor can recommend an appropriate calcium supplement. Since there are several different types of calcium and a variety of supplements available, you should discuss the choice of calcium with your doctor.
The calcium in supplements needs to be easily absorbed by the body. You can be sure of this if the tablet dissolves almost entirely in a small glass of warm water or vinegar within 30 minutes. Also read the label to determine the actual amount of calcium in the supplement, which is usually referred to as elemental calcium.
Some people are lactose intolerant and have difficulty digesting dairy products because they lack the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down the milk sugar lactose. Milk fermented with certain bacteria (called acidophilus) is well tolerated, as are yogurt and hard cheeses. If you are lactose intolerant, you can treat lactose-containing foods with commercial preparations of lactase or buy milk products that have already been treated.
Getting enough calcium, whether through diet or supplements, is essential to maintaining bone strength and can play a vital role in preventing osteoporosis-related fractures. Speak to a doctor or dietician about how you can get the proper amount of calcium.
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