Can a 9% bone density loss in 1-2 years be caused by constant stress

Posted by jhenson @jhenson, 3 days ago

A year and a half ago I developed a medical condition that has caused me almost constant anxiety. I’ve become an insomniac and have to rely on sleep meds for get any sleep. I walk just about every day. The only major changes is developing anxiety/depression and not sleeping well. Could the stress be causing this bone loss? I’m 72 and two years ago my bone density was good. Now, the bone density of both hips are moderate to markedly osteopenia which puts me at the moderate to high fracture risk. Has anyone else had this and what did you do? Thanks.

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jhenson | @jhenson | 3 days ago

Does working out with weights help at all when the bone density is at this point? thanks

sonodeka | @sonodeka | 2 days ago

Hi @jhenson. I'm so sorry for what you're going through. I have experienced periods of great stress and have also wondered if it contributed to my bone loss. My understanding is that stress causes inflammation in the body, and that's never a good thing for bones or health in general.
Although I'm not a model practitioner by any means, I think you might benefit from mindful breathing and meditation. There are some really lovely guided meditations available on YouTube. Jon Kabot-Zinn is a doctor and leader in the field of mindfulness and stress reduction and there are several meditations available, plus books and courses. There are lots of others out there as well to explore. It takes practice but can be very calming.
Exercise is also always beneficial for stress reduction. Gentle stretching before bed often helps with sleep.
Wishing you peace of mind and good health.

sonodeka | @sonodeka | 2 days ago

In reply to @jhenson "Does working out with weights help at all when the bone density is at this point?..." + (show)

Exercise is always helpful!! Working with weights might build bone, might maintain bone, might slow bone loss depending on how you do it. But exercise will always help with balance, flexibility strength and quality of life! Many of us like Brickhouse Bones on YouTube for exercise and weight training, and Margaret Martin at Melio Guide. I hope you find something you enjoy. I'm sure you will benefit.

loriesco | @loriesco | 2 days ago

Stress has an impact on other things in your body, especially ongoing. However, we don’t have enough information to say if it’s having a direct effect or is causal. There are a lot of tests you can have that will tell you so you’ll need to see a doctor. You should know, however a good deal of women your age have the same problem and they don’t have chronic stress. there’s a big difference between having osteopenia/osteoporosis and having a connection to bone compression fractures. Yes, when your bones aren’t strong, you can fracture them when you fall, but there are specific conditions which increase the opportunities for fractures, but these need to be diagnosed by your doctor. I’ve taken sleep aids for 30 years periodically. Getting good exercise in exhaust me and I have good sleep. The least a little bit of alcohol disrupts my sleep and I’m a slow caffeine metabolizer so I have to restrict coffee to first thing in the morning. Everything we do adds up positively or negatively. But I think you need more information to give you a sense of security and reduce your anxiety. Good luck.