Bone density scans

[weee]

How often should these be done? I was at the GP a couple of years ago with achey hips and asked as I hadn't been scanned since diagnosis 8 years previously I was told it wasn't necessary.

A scan last year revealed osteopenia and am now on calcium and vit D supplements.

[Ian67]

Not sure... I've had two in three yrs

[weee in reply to Ian67]

I just wonder if I should have one to see if the calcium and vit D has made any difference. Not sure if it would though..

[Hidden]

Hya, I have just had a 2nd scan, the first was 10 years ago. And the results have come back that I have osteopenia but do not need to see the Dr for calcium etc. However it may be worthwhile that I return for another DXA re-scan in 3 to 5 years to see if anything has changed.

If you are not happy with anything your GP tells you, you are entitled to ask to be referred to your gastro.

What I would do as you had a scan last year is ask your GP to do a full blood test to ascertain your iron and mineral levels (which will show the calcium levels in your body)

Lastly it is in your best interests to get some weights and to take regular exercise to help keep the bone density good and help prevent you from getting osteoporosis. Being a lady you could get some aerobic weights. I use a set of weights and take regular exercise by walking and riding a bike and my osteopenia is still mild after being diagnosed with it 10 years ago and I do not take any calcium supplements. So I wouldn't worry too much about having osteopenia just look at what you can do to keep fit and stay fit.

That's my 2p's worth and good luck

[weee in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for this Jerry.

I do exercise regularly but its generally not load bearing. I walk, play badminton and squash with occassionally other more strenuous forms of excercise.. I do have some weights. Well my son has, I may borrow them..

I will make an appointment I think and see what my GP has to say .

[FionaGFG Administrator]

Hi - they normally only scan at diagnosis for bone damage and many years later to assess if it has improved. For people with normal bone scans they often won't get another until well into their 60s. Many coeliacs inc myself get achy hips and joints. Yr Dr can run a blood test for inflammatory markers. The calci-chew & vitamin D tablets on prescription are pretty basic. Ask yr Doc to check yr vitamin D blood test. Re-do it and see if it's at least 50 - 75+. If it's lower than 50 then you need it boosting. Normally at diagnosis with low vitamin D they'll give you a booster vitamin D injection. Low vitamin D causes many aches and pains and muscle spasms and stiffness after sitting down.

FYI blood tests for Calcium aren't a great indicator of the level in yr bones but they're a start at seeing what's going on.

Don't suffer discuss with yr Dr.

[weee in reply to FionaGFG]

Thank you for replying. I guess I'm just a little anxious that I had an abnormal scan, osteopenia rathhr than osteopororsis as yet. I wonder if progression will happen and want to keep on top of things..

Ellen

[ianwoowoo]

Hi,

I had to ask for a Dexa scan after diagnosis, it showed low bone density but no mention of osteopenia or osteoporosis. I am taking calcium with vitamin D3 now and the hospital recomended to my doctor that I have another scan in 2 years. I guess this means they would expect to see a change in that time.

I do exercise both running and cycling and I believe this is good for your bones. I would suggest you make sure you are getting plenty calcium in your diet with or without supplements.

I never really linked the state of Bines with the aching I get when I have been kneeling or bending over for a period of time. I assumed it was just getting old!

Good luck.

[weee in reply to ianwoowoo]

ahhh that may be it.. I refuse to acknowledge I'm getting older but I guess I better take my head out of the sand..

I do love milk and drink a big glass every day as well as cheese and other dairy products,,and exercise is a must ..

Thanks for replying

[Lynxcat]

Weee, You might find this link useful regarding calcium - it contains lists of foods that contain good portions of calcium and how much calcium is in each portion.

emedicinehealth.com/osteopo...

[weee in reply to Lynxcat]

Thank you Lynxcat.. Much apprciated

[Hidden]

Hi, I have my dexa scan every 3 years... I'm showing no signs which is great but due to my age have kept the scans at that...I'm not sure if this is what happens everywhere though

[Lucylui]

Hi sorry for bumping this up, but was wondering if everybody has had a bone density scan? I was diagnosed about a year ago, it was mentioned that I should have one as I am rather tall and rather underweight and only in my early 20s. Should I request one, or just be sensible and start taking supplements? I think I am also dairy intolerant so have cut this out also.

Many thanks

[weee]

You should have one at diagnosis as a baseline and then every hospital will have their own policy on it , but I was re scanned 8 years later. My initial scan was fine and 8 years later I had some osteopenia and had to start calcium and Vit D..