Bone Density Test

[MrsCMK]

Hey all,

My Asthma Specialist referred me for a Bone Density test after learning that I was prescribed 5 courses of prednisolone in the summer (I think in the last 13 months I’ve had 9 courses) and I have my appointment for the beginning of January

I’m not worried about this at all but curious more than anything. I understand that steroids can affect bone density but is my specialist over reacting or can 5 courses in a short period of time really have that much of an impact?

Has anyone experienced such before?

Thanks in advance!

[Hidden]

I’ve been on & off prednisone, often at very high doses eg 60mg, for over 40yrs. I have regular scans but so far, amazingly, my bone density is still just about within normal range. I take AdCal and am careful to eat a healthy diet, but I think the main reason is regular exercise. This is hard when you have asthma but just a few minutes several times a day helps. Resistance bands are a good standby when you’re really wheezy.

[MrsCMK in reply to Hidden]

Ahhh, I didn’t realise that having to monitor bone density was “a thing” but makes total sense. I consume a lot of dairy every day so hopefully this has helped me along 😉

[Wheezycat in reply to MrsCMK]

I have never been monitored, but I do know it is a thing. My friend with asthma, and much steroids in the past is. I think I heard her say that taking vit D is also a good idea. I know that lack of vit D can start reabsorbing calcium from the bones. I was deficient, and I think I got the typical pain from that. That is now a thing of the past, and I am careful to take vit D regularly.

[MrsCMK in reply to Wheezycat]

This is pretty interesting. Thanks for sharing 🤗

[CDPO16]

I was told while attending pulmonary rehab several years ago that if you had 3 courses of prednisolone in a 12 month period you should ask your GP for a bone density scan. I don't think they are routinely done by many doctors.

I was prescribed Adcal and Alendronic Acid 3 years ago after repeated courses of prednisolone without having had a scan done. I stopped taking the Alendronic Acid after 2 years because of side effects and after more prednisolone over the course of last winter one of my GPs sent me for a scan which showed osteoporosis in my hips and spine but I chose not to start taking the A Acid again. I still take the Adcal and also Vit K2 which is supposed to help direct the calcium to the bones rather than the kidneys and blood vessels. Exercise and diet also play a big role in healthy bones.

Depending on the outcome of your scan there is lots of advice on the Bone Health forum should you need it. Hope all is well for you.

[MrsCMK in reply to CDPO16]

I’m learning so much from this thread- thanks for the info 🤗

[lejaya]

I had a bone density scan after many courses of pred over 15 years which showed osteopenia, I was prescribed alendronic acid for a little while and now take calcichew long term. I'm also lactose intolerant which probably didn't help.

[Hidden]

Some people are super sensitive but it’s more likely that he’s just going to get a baseline on you. I’m nearly 74 and I’ve had a lot more steroids than you without bone problems. I wouldn’t worry about it. The test is no big deal, just a specialized X-ray.

[MrsCMK in reply to Hidden]

That makes total sense and now seems pretty sensible of my doctor. Thanks 😉

[Blue-Breeze]

I'm on my 6th short course since June. I do take Calceos 1 tab twice a day. My orthopaedic consultant did suggest Monday to ask my GP for a scan. I'm seeing him for a follow up next week I will mention it then.

[Dawk1]

After a recent minor fall i broke my hip.The bone doctors where amazed that i hadnt been offered a Dexa scan after being on injected steroids for almost 2 years and also oral steroids on and off for 3 years.Aparently at 60 years old i was too young for this to happen.A recent bone scan showed that i had osteoporosis.So if i was you i would be grateful that they are offering you one now and hopefully you will be ok,and they will keep an eye on you.

[hilary39]

This is such a helpful post--thank you!!! I have been on prednisone frequently for 3 years, I take hydrocortisone daily, and no doctors have ever mentioned bone scans to me (!) I will ask my endocrinologist tomorrow and buy some calcium asap. Thanks all.

[Ayeup]

Being an asthmatic I've had countless courses of steroids over the years and also had them for fibromyalgia. Funnily enough I had a bone density scan yesterday and I'm glad my GP is looking into it for me. I'm currently on calcium/vit D tablets as a precaution. I'm also allergic to dairy so perhaps haven't got enough calcium through diet in the past. I think it's something we need to be aware of as asthmatics.

[peege]

A precaution I imagine. Also, further down the line they'll have something to measure the next bone scan to.

[Emily-G]

I had a bone density scan a couple of years ago after repeated courses of pred and kenalog steroid injections. Results showed osteopenia so I now take daily calcius tablets. Hope you get on ok

[Birthday60]

I had a bone density scan and was diagnosed with osteopenia- annoyingly SAGA refused to cover me for winter sports but other travel companies had no problem. I have been cross country skiing for over 25 years and have never had any accidents ....