Beyond the Bones: 5 Unexpected Signs of Osteoporosis

Some signs of osteoporosis — or bone deterioration — are obvious. If you fracture a bone without too much pressure on the area, for example, it’s a pretty clear indicator that something is wrong. But you don’t necessarily want to discover osteoporosis because the structural integrity of your bones has already given way.

That’s why we want to highlight some early warning signs of this bone condition.

Ashok Kadambi, MD, FACE, and our team created this overview to help you identify signs before experiencing a fracture. As an osteoporosis specialist, Dr. Kadambi offers support for your bones here at Fort Wayne Endocrinology. Because your bones rely on specific hormones to stay strong and healthy, his endocrine expertise helps you support your body’s support system. 

Watch out for these osteoporosis signals

Here are the top indicators that your skeletal system is struggling:

#1: You are losing height

There’s a reason your doctor’s team measures your height each time you go in for a physical. If you’re shorter, it could be due to degeneration in your spine. Even tiny differences like centimeters are a warning sign, especially if you have back pain, too. 

#2: Your teeth feel loose

Don’t ignore movement in your teeth. It could be a sign that you’re losing density in your jawbone. And if you’re experiencing that in your mouth, your other bones might be having issues, too. 

#3: You are dealing with digestive issues

Stomach problems and bone problems can occur together. Digestive conditions can make it harder for your body to absorb the nutrients it needs to support strong bones. 

As you develop tiny fractures in your lower back, it can shrink the space your digestive system needs to function. 

#4: You have sudden hearing loss

A range of studies have linked osteoporosis and sudden hearing loss. While researchers haven’t yet pinpointed the direct link, some think that osteoporosis can affect the tiny bones in your ears.  

#5: Your nails feel brittle

Your nails use some of the same supports as your bones, including collagen and calcium. If your nails feel more frail and brittle than they used to, your bones might be struggling similarly. 

What to do if you think your bones might be weakening

Here at Fort Wayne Endocrinology, Dr. Kadambi discusses your symptoms. If he thinks you may have osteoporosis, he recommends a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, which helps us identify bone loss. 

If we find that you have osteoporosis, we work to strengthen your skeletal system by addressing any underlying causes, adjusting your diet to include more bone-supporting nutrients, and modifying your exercise routine to help strengthen your bones. Dr. Kadambi may also prescribe medication to support your bones.  

Don’t ignore the early signs of osteoporosis. We can help you intervene before a fracture. If you think your bones may be weakening, book your appointment online or contact our office in Fort Wayne, Indiana, today.