Osteoporosis is a well-known disease that causes the bones of a patient to weaken and become brittle. Severe cases can fully impede the ability to live a normal life and make it difficult to conduct physical activities. Osteoporosis can cause bones to become brittle to the point that even mild stress on them can cause fractures. The way it affects the body is that because bone is a regenerative tissue it is broken down and replaced, but with osteoporosis, the new bone does not replace the old fast enough, often leaving porous gaps that weakens it.
Based on bone density measurements and an average of 9,000 hip fractures that occurs in Norway every year, one of the most serious consequences of osteoporosis, it was found that they have one of the most prevalent rates of the disease in the world. Norway recorded between 240,000-300,000 cases in 2011 (Norwegian Institute of Public Health). More people develop Osteoporosis after their peak bone density, often at 30 years old on average. Older women are also more likely to develop more severe cases due to excessive hormone changes brought about by menopause.
There are many risk factors that can be attributed to being afflicted with osteoporosis. Genetics, age, race, and sex are unchangeable risks. However, medications such as steroids and cancer treatments can cause osteoporosis, as well as dietary and lifestyle factors such as low calcium intake, alcohol abuse, and tobacco usage among many others. Although it is not possible to naturally repair bones damaged by osteoporosis, treatment often includes exercise, supplements, and bisphosphonate medications. The best way known to date is to take preventative measures either to avoid developing osteoporosis or stem its development. Prevention is simple but may require a change in lifestyle and diet. The best-known way is to properly get the proper daily amount of calcium, approximately 1,000 milligrams, vitamin D, and proper exercise. Digital healthcare tools like Care.Wallet can help patients to be better informed about the disease, preventative measures, and treatment plans by having access to them readily available.
Care.Wallet is a powerful tool that has the ability to have everything patients may need for successfully managing their health. If experiencing unexpected symptoms, a patient can book an appointment with a few clicks directly in the App. If a patient needs a ride to the facility, Care.Wallet has got them covered with a medical transportation solution embedded. If it’s not possible to have an in-office visit, Care.Wallet allows for booking online appointments via Global Telehealth Exchange.
With Care.Wallet the patient doesn’t have to worry about preparing for the appointment, as all their previous medical records are securely stored in their Care.Wallet and can be shared with all members of their care team in real-time. On top of that, Care.Wallet allows for symptom recording and management. Armed with all necessary the information, medical professionals can better evaluate the health condition of the patient and diagnose the problem. Prescriptions and referrals can be easily managed within the App as well. Care.Wallet has a comprehensive feedback function, called “How Are You Feeling Today” (HAYFT) Cards, that allows the patient to stay in touch with their care provider and report any changes to their health condition. In addition, the Care.Circle functionality provides an opportunity for the patient to have health information exchanged between all care professionals involved in their treatment. Family and friends can be invited to join their Care.Circle as well to support the patient in their recovery and stay updated about their current health situation.
Care.Wallet is a powerful health management tool designed to offer a new improved standard of care and will improve the way healthcare works by putting patients in control of their health management. If you enjoyed this article, do take a look at our previous article Chron’s Disease in Ireland.
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