Asthma May Increase Osteoporosis Risks

According to a new study that was recently published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, researchers have discovered that there is a link between asthma and bone loss, potentially leaving those with asthma at a greater risk for bone loss. Affecting an increasing number of people, asthma is a serious respiratory disease that is characterized as the obstruction or narrowing of the lungs (making it difficult to breathe) and plagues people of all ages and races.   Researchers explain that this is still a preliminary study and it needs to be followed up by further research looking into what the cause-and-effect relationship is between the two conditions. While previous studies have already illustrated that the long-term use of corticosteroids increases an individual’s risks for osteoporosis (a bone weakening condition cause by decreased bone mass), this is one of the first studies that has shown a meaningful connection between asthma and bone loss, even with the patients who have not used oral corticosteroids. Researchers also note that additional studies should also pay attention to if factors like age, race, or gender have any impact on asthma patients’ risks for bone loss, or their rate of bone loss. In addition to looking at the use of corticosteroids as a causal factor for bone loss, experts also suggest that future researchers look into if factors like the asthma patients’ vitamin and nutrient levels have any impact on their rate of bone loss, like if those with a vitamin D deficiency, for example, have a greater risk for bone loss or not.   Experts also emphasize that although steroid use could be linked to bone loss, it is still imperative that patients using these types of drugs to treat and manage their asthma conditions continue using them as directed. For many asthma patients the benefits of using these drugs still outweighs the possible side effects. If patients are concerned about their risks their best option is to consult with their healthcare provider, who may suggest adding some vitamin and mineral supplements, such as those that contain bone strengthening ingredients like calcium and vitamin D) to their daily regimen.   Here at Mountainside Medical Equipment we offer a wide range of vitamins and supplements to help you and the whole family stay healthy, as well as having a category of products that are dedicated to helping those with Asthma breathe easier. Sources: http://www.mountainside-medical.com/asthma-asthmatic-bronchus/ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_146114.html