Osteoporosis is a very common disease. It is estimated that ten million Americans have osteoporosis and are therefore at increased risk for fractures. The leading cause of osteoporosis is lower levels of estrogen typically found in post-menopausal women. Other factors that can increase your risk for osteoporosis include being confined to a bed, Vitamin D deficiency, chronic use of steroids, and hyperparathyroidism. 

Osteoporosis can lead to fragile bones that break easily. The most common osteoporotic, low trauma fractures occur in the wrist, spine, and hip. These fractures can be very debilitating. 

Fortunately, osteoporosis can be treated and even prevented. There are several medical options for treatment of osteoporosis including pills and injections. Osteoporosis can be prevented by daily intake of foods that have calcium and vitamin D, exercise, and not smoking.

Other calcium related problems include disorders of parathyroid hormone (PTH) such as Hypoparathyroidism and Hyperparathyroidism. These can cause Hypocalcemia (low calcium) and Hypercalcemia (high calcium) respectively. Your doctor will discuss options for treatment of these disorders during your office visit.