Here’s another reason to find other methods to improve allergic asthma along with medication, instead of relying entirely on pills or tablets. Over 30 million women over the age of 50 have osteoporosis. Osteoporosis causes bones to become fragile, increasing the risk of fracture—and aside from being painful, factures can decrease mobility or require surgery. Most often the bones of the spine, wrists, upper arms, pelvis and hips are affected.

There are several risk factors adding to the likeliness of developing osteoporosis; these include gender, family, history, race (Caucasians and Asians are those at highest risk), inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, low amounts of physical activity, cigarette smoking, low body weight, excessive amounts of alcohol consumption and taking cortisone-like medications (glucocorticosteroids) or seizure medications. The reason that understanding osteoporosis is important for people with asthma is because of the increased risk asthmatics have for loosing bone density.

This is because asthma, which is an inflammatory disease of the lungs, is treated with anti-inflammatory ingredients like glucocorticosteroids. Long term use of these medications is associated with several adverse side effects, including the promotion of osteoporosis. Pill treatments like Medrol (generic name: Methylprednisolone), Prelone (generic name: Prednisolone/prednisolon), Deltasone (generic name: Prednisone) contain corticosteroids. Many inhaler treatments contain corticosteroids, but you are less likely to develop side effects when this ingredient is in an inhaled medicine.

How can you prevent asthma medication from causing osteoporosis?

• Make sure that your calcium intake is adequate for your age, gender and physical circumstance (i.e. pregnant, postmenopausal, etc)
• Supplement your diet with appropriate amounts of vitamin D, but not excessive (400 International Units per day, unless directed by doctor)
• Exercise regularly, using weight-bearing exercises (walking, hiking, stair climbing, jogging, etc.)
• Avoid smoking and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol
• Explore different means of alleviating allergic asthma symptoms:
1. Avoid allergens
2. Utilize an asthma-safe air purifier
3. See an Allergist about allergic immunotherapy