Hi just to let you know i had ...: Hi just to let... - LUPUS UK

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Hi just to let you know i had ...

Naz2005 profile image
11 Replies

Hi just to let you know i had a Dexa scan today was told its requested by consultant because steriods can thin your bones they couldn’t tell me anything but results will go to consultant so its about 4 weeks wait can anybody enlighten me ? thank you

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Naz2005 profile image
Naz2005
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11 Replies
nanleighh profile image
nanleighh

HinNaz 2005, It is standard of care to do a dexascan when a person has been on steroids for awhile. If this is your first dexascan then it is considered your baseline. Then they will repeat it in 2 years to see if there are any changes in your bone density. Of course if you had significant bone loss as in osteoporosis they would discuss treatment options with you. If you had significant bone loss and you decided on treatment then they repeat another scan in 2 years because it takes that long to show significant changes or improvements. It is basically a screening test for people on steroids to determine bone health. Even if you have healthy bones on the first scan if you continue on steroids they usually will repeat the dexascan every few years. Take care and try not to worry too much. Hugs

Naz2005 profile image
Naz2005 in reply tonanleighh

Thank you very much for the advice much apperciated xxx

Alex97 profile image
Alex97

I have had 5 doses of very high intravenous steroids this year so far (each time 3 days of 1000mg per day) as well as between 30-80mg per day and no one has mentioned this scan to me. Should I be worried? Or should I just mention it to fheumatologist at next appointment?

Naz2005 profile image
Naz2005 in reply toAlex97

Hi i think you should ask your consultant as im to new to all this all the best all we can do here is advise each other good luck xxx

tiredmum profile image
tiredmum

Hi, I had a dexa scan years after being on steroids and I was found to have steroid induced osteoporosis. I have been put on Alendronic Acid tablets once a week and hopefully this will increase my bone density. I have not yet reached the menopause which could further reduce the bone density. No one has explained the significance of having osteoporosis so at the moment am living in ignorant bliss haha.

Naz2005 profile image
Naz2005

Hi i know the feeling its scarey the not knowing aswell as the knowing just hope were all in good hand all the best xxx

Joy_1 profile image
Joy_1

Hi

I have been on steroids for about 5 years now. Finally thankfully tapering without flaring.

I was put on Alendronic Acid + calcium + dexa scan once it appeared I was going to stuck on steroid for some time.

I was advised to take 2 calcium tablets a day but my GP said take one as they don't realize you have a good diet. She was right I only needed 1.

After 5 years you are supposed to come off Alendronic Acid and give your body a 2 year break before restarting - if you are still on steroids.

Dexa is every couple of years.

I have tried to keep weight bearing exercise up to counteract issues steroids will bring.

Joy

Naz2005 profile image
Naz2005 in reply toJoy_1

Thank you still trying to get used to all the tests etc yes still on steriods was diagnosed with LUPUS (sle) & FIBROMYALGIA 11.09.2018 after a year long of suffering i have alot of other underlying health issues too xxx

Joy_1 profile image
Joy_1 in reply toNaz2005

Hang in there, stay positive.

I have UCTD with lung involvement. And as I say finally after 5 years of trying this drug and that, upping and downing meds, adding and taking away meds. I am finally heading into chemical remission.

wishing you all the best

Joy

Paul_Howard profile image
Paul_HowardPartnerLUPUS UK

Hi Naz2005 ,

You may find our Factsheet, 'Bone Health and Osteoporosis' helpful. You can read and download it at lupusuk.org.uk/wp-content/u...

Naz2005 profile image
Naz2005

Thank you x

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