What are the early warning signs of osteoporosis

Published on 14 July 2026

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a medical condition that reduces the density and strength of your bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. As the bones become weaker, even minor stresses such as coughing or a small fall can lead to fractures.

Until your mid-thirties, your bones are usually at their thickest and strongest. After this point, we all gradually start losing bone. However, if you develop osteoporosis, you lose bone much faster than normal.

There are many reasons why you may be more likely to develop osteoarthritis:

• You’re over 50 years old
• You smoke or have previous broken bones
• If you have low testosterone as a male
• You have a family history of osteoporosis
• BMI of 19 or less
• If you have pre-existing conditions such as hypothyroidism or rheumatoid arthritis

Women are at higher risk of osteoporosis because the drop in oestrogen during menopause directly reduces bone density. Oestrogen is essential for maintaining strong bones, and its decline after menopause can lead to rapid bone loss. The risk is even higher for women who have:

• An early menopause (before 45)
• A hysterectomy before 45, especially if the ovaries are removed
• Absent periods for over six months due to excessive exercise or restrictive dieting

What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

In its early stages, osteoporosis often has no noticeable symptoms. Many people live with the condition without realising it. It is frequently only diagnosed after a fracture occurs, sometimes from a minor fall or everyday activity, when the bone breaks more easily than expected.

What are the early warning signs of osteoporosis?

Although osteoporosis often develops without obvious symptoms, there can be some early warning signs. These may include changes in posture (such as a slight stoop) and height, lower back pain, and, in some cases, shortness of breath if the spinal discs become compressed enough to reduce lung capacity.

Can GLP-1 medications cause osteoporosis?

Current evidence doesn't show a clear link that GLP-1 drugs (including semaglutide such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and liraglutide such as Victoza and Saxenda) directly cause osteoporosis. However, the rapid weight loss associated with these medications may contribute to some loss of bone mineral density in certain people.

Does osteoporosis make you tired?

Osteoporosis itself does not directly cause fatigue. However, it can contribute to feelings of tiredness through secondary factors such as medication side effects, pain from fractures, disrupted sleep, or reduced physical activity compared to normal.

How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

If you have concerns about fragile or weak bones, a DEXA scan will be used to diagnose osteoporosis. The DEXA scan, also known as the bone density or DXA scan, uses low dose dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to assess the density of your bones. The scan is quick and painless, usually taking 10 to 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll lie on your back on an X-ray table while the scanner captures images of a specific area of your body.

What are the stages of osteoporosis?

Your bone density scan results are shown as a T score, which compares your bone mineral density with that of a healthy young adult of the same sex.

• T score between 0 and -1: your bone density is within the normal range
• T score between -1 and -2.5: this indicates osteopenia, meaning your bones are weaker than normal but not low enough to be classed as osteoporosis
• T score below -2.5: this confirms osteoporosis, where bone density is significantly reduced

Is osteoporosis reversible?

Osteoporosis is not reversible, but with the right treatment, its progression can be slowed and bone strength can be improved.

The most suitable approach will depend on your individual circumstances and may include a combination of medications, some designed to strengthen the bone, and others that work with hormones, as well as lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet and regular exercise. The Royal Osteoporosis Society’s website is full of great information, and you can view a series of short videos that explain how you can exercise safely.

Ensuring an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is also essential for maintaining healthy bones.

How can I access an osteoporosis DEXA scan?

To arrange a DEXA scan at Benenden Hospital, you’ll need a referral from a healthcare professional. This could be your own GP, through our Private GP service or from a consultant or osteopath. Please note, it is not suitable for anyone under the age of 20 or those who have had a baby in the last 12 months.

For more information, or to book, please contact our Imaging department on 01580 362887.