Osteoporosis - eating problems

no1catman

Does anyone with osteoporosis experience problems when eating?

Loss of appetite = smaller meals.

Have problems with food going down to the stomach, if the piece is a bit robust (I don't mean large) you have a sense that it seems stuck, and takes time to go down.

If so, do feel it is a symptom of the condition, or a side-effect of the medication.

Interested to read of people's experiences.

jenniewb

As someone who has osteoporosis and eating problems, I can say that as much as I struggle to keep the inevitable at bay (the osteoporosis getting worse by keeping my nutrition sound) it really is not impossible being that there are so many alternatives to eating enough and getting all the needed nutrients in your body for the day.


I don't however, think that the osteoporosis makes it difficult to swallow or eat enough. It also is not a known side effect or symptom of osteoporosis as far as I know (and I know many people with osteoporosis and/or osteopenia). I take medication for osteoporosis (vitamin D3 and calcium) and do not think this is a side effect of that medication either, at least it's not been the case in my experience or of that of others I know who have to be on this medication.


If you struggle with eating and do not have an eating disorder, first of all with symptoms such as feeling something is "stuck", it is really important you discuss this with a GP because it is a symptom which needs to be checked out.


If you know the issue is psychological/emotional, there are treatments which can help with this and again your GP is the best person to see initially. Things like CBT, counselling, psychotherapy and a range of other psychological treatments are available, some via the NHS and most privately for a fee.

But that is assuming you want to do something about it. If you are "happy" with not being able to consume enough to stay healthy via solid foods, there are plenty of liquid alternatives to foods which will give you enough balance in your nutrition. Just make sure you vary things- stay aware of the sugar levels which will inevitably be higher in say, a protein shake or build up drink/meal replacement drink or home made smoothie (even if you stick to the veggie versions).

Mojisola

no1catman wrote: »

If so, do feel it is a symptom of the condition, or a side-effect of the medication.

If you are taking Fosamax, see your GP about this problem - it's one of the side effects.

Janey3

I have osteoporosis but do not have difficulties you describe. I had difficulty in swallowing the Alendronic Acid tablet medication prescribed for me so now I have a six monthly Prolia injection.

I do hope your GP will help you with the problem.

no1catman

Janey3 wrote: »

I have osteoporosis but do not have difficulties you describe. I had difficulty in swallowing the Alendronic Acid tablet medication prescribed for me so now I have a six monthly Prolia injection.

I do hope your GP will help you with the problem.

The Pharmacy, could have changed the brand of medication you were on - my Partner was given Somax brand tablets once, there were a lot bigger than her normal/usual ones, I make sure when collecting that we don't get that brand.
Incidentally, to clarify, no problem 'swallowing' it's the progress further down that can be a problem.

Janey3

Thank you. No mention made of changing the brand although they knew of my difficulties, but part of my difficulty was psychological, hence the injection. Yes, a different problem to yours and hope it will be resolved soon.

jenniewb

no1catman wrote: »

The Pharmacy, could have changed the brand of medication you were on - my Partner was given Somax brand tablets once, there were a lot bigger than her normal/usual ones, I make sure when collecting that we don't get that brand.
Incidentally, to clarify, no problem 'swallowing' it's the progress further down that can be a problem.

Please please see a Doctor if you are experiencing a problem with swallowing, especially if it's because something feels "stuck" or "wont go down". I am saying this for a reason- I'd like to say more but I can't say more than that, I'm sure you know the rules on these boards and how quick they are to delete threads but it is something I strongly recommend you speaking to someone about.

El_Debster

I am being treated for osteopenia and not had difficulty swallowing or eating due to it. However I have had some swallowing issues due to GERD and acid reflux. It has been treated with medication and changing some eating habits. I agree it would be worth seeing your doctor and getting it checked out, anything that affects your ability to swallow should be looked at.