Osteoporosis continues to be a major public health issue as the population ages. This disease is characterized by bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures, especially of the spine and hip, although any bone can be affected. It requires several preventive precautions that must be taken, especially among elders. Maintaining vitamin D levels is an essential step to resist osteoporosis.
Commenting on vitamin D deficiency, Dr. Al-Zayat, Orthopedic Senior specialist at the International Medical Center (IMC) in Jeddah, says that deficiency symptoms could interfere with symptoms of other illnesses. Symptoms include muscular and joint pains, muscular weakness, especially in hips and arms, and overall fatigue. In severe conditions, the patient could face difficulty in going upstairs, and repeated fractures in young people.
The sun is the most important source of vitamin D. Dr. Al-Zayat stressed on the impotence of exposing oneself to the sun on daily basis, for 20-45 minutes for adults depending on skin color; where dark skin needs more time and 10-15 minutes for children. A big portion of the body should be directly exposed to the sun, such as the arm, or leg, not behind a glass or in the shadow. Inactive Vitamin D is embedded in the subcutaneous tissues of the skin where it transferred to active for by exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sunlight.
However, what are the functions of the vitamin D in the body? How can we get it? Dr. Al-Zayat added, “Vitamin D does much for our bodies; it has receptors on all cells of the body, which is an indication that all cells need it, including muscles, bones, calcium absorption from the intestine. Vitamin D is also important for the immunity and disease resistance; there is a relationship between development of diabetes and tumors, and vitamin D deficiency.
Dr. Ihab Al-Zayat provides the best prescription for elders against osteoporosis. He says, It is important to maintain a safe house. Carpets should be fixed to the ground, wiring and toys should be removed from the ground, and staircase should be equipped with lights and handrail to support people upon going up or down. Dim lights should be installed at bathrooms, hallways, and bedrooms during nights to guarantee that people will not take medicines that cause imbalance. Vision problems should be corrected, and a walking aid should be used, or a person to accompany elders when moving from one place to another.
