Brittle bones in adults

 

A person's bones are made up of two different types of bone tissue, namely, cortical and cancellous. The cortical tissue is found on the external surface of the bone and is the densest type of tissue. It provides strength to the bone while making it resistant to fracturing. However, if it is subjected to high impact injuries or repeated use in areas with weight-bearing activities, it can become brittle.

On one hand, people with brittle bones are more at risk for fractures because their bones are less elastic. On the other hand, they have a higher risk for osteoporosis because their bones aren’t able to absorb calcium as well due to low-density levels. Moreover, fragile bones are also more susceptible to cancerous cells that get into the bloodstream.

Brittle bones are not only very common but also difficult to diagnose.

For most people, the first symptom of brittle bone disease is a sudden fracture. Other symptoms include pain, fatigue, and depression.

Brittle bones can be caused by many things including vitamin D deficiency or insufficient calcium intake, chronic illness like kidney failure, and certain medications like chemotherapy drugs.

Doctors do not always know what causes brittle bones. The best treatment they have is prevention through supplements or dietary changes that provide enough protein and calcium for your body to meet its needs.