Hi. I recently had a dexa scan and yesterday I was told that the GP has my results and needs to see me. I am sure lots of you on here have had the same. My appointment isn't until 23rd feb and I am quite anxious already. I know I should wait to see what the doc says and normally I do. I try not to speculate but I think the fact that my mother had osteoporosis at the same age as me has made me nervous as it didn't end well for her. I do have intermittent problems with my back and hip and I see an Osteopath who usually sorts me out but since the last time, in January, it hasn't helped. If it is just a case of taking tablets that's fine. Is there any other kind of intervention that you know of and how have you been since diagnosis.? Thanks for reading. I await your replies with some trepidation. x
Dexa Scan: Hi. I recently had a dexa scan and yesterday... - NRAS
Dexa Scan
My mum also had severe osteoporosis- but that was years ago and treatments have advanced a lot. Im just having oral treatment at the moment- had a spectacular fall recently and was surprised that I didn’t fracture anything.
The good thing is that we get scans routinely so that treatment can start early.
Hi Sheila. Have you tried the Bone Forum on HU, there are some knowledgeable people on there. Also, you could have a look at the ROS (Royal Osteoporosis Society) website, it's a really good organisation and their helpline is very good too.
Don’t worry..as you say you will probably just be advised to take pills…..something like Biophosphonates.
I’ve been taking Alendronic Acid for two years with no side effects. These days you are advised to only take them for 5 years…so 2 down,3 to go….& be very careful not to fall of course.
there’s a ton of free information on this website specific to osteoporosismthat might help you. Disclaimer, he is one of my clients and he’s brilliant in this field. His aim is to eradicate osteoporosis by 2040.
Thank you for this info.
There's a ton of free info on the Sticks and Stones site that you may find useful
Sorry to jump on your post Sheila. Just wondering, does everyone with RA get offered a Dexa scan, or only if there's a problem?
I had one in December last year but only because I was found to have a compressed fracture of T9 vertabrae and I don't have a clue how I did it No falls or knocks or anything. Found not to have osteoporosis at the mo but consultant is yet to give me the likely hood as she hadn't done the calculations last time I saw her. She told me to drink milk, eat cheese etc. A pint of semi skimmed milk a day gives me enough calcium apparently.
I was offered one by my Rheumatologist about 6 months after I was diagnosed and had a follow up scan after 5 years. I have been taking Alendronic acid for just over 5 years and the advice from my Rheumatologist after scan in October 22 was to continue to take it for 10 years.
Thank you both. x
No problem. I have had 3 altogether. First two offered by Rheumatology over the years and this last one through a routine check with GP when I told him I hadn't had one for a few years.
Thank you Sheila. I'll mention it to the consultant next month when I see him.
I wouldn’t worry to much, the good news is if there is an issue, they know about it now and can treat it. It may be osteopenia, rather than osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is when your T score is >2.5. I had osteopenia with a score of -2.1, I was on Alendronic acid for 2yrs, unfortunately it caused identical stress fractures in both ankles 18 months apart, so was stopped. I have managed to reverse mine without meds, just by diet and increasing weight bearing exercise. My last score was -1.3. I should add that stress fractures of the ankle with AA are rare, and I was just unfortunate.
I would hold off on seeing your osteopath till you know the result. Osteoporotic bone fractures easier, so any manipulation can be dangerous. Once you have your result I’d speak to your rheumatology team about revisiting the osteopath.
Yes that's what she said I have, osteopenia. I couldn't remember what it was called. Too many big words to remember 😂
My mother has osteoporosis and I recently had a dexa scan. The wait for results in our area is 12 weeks so I am still waiting!! There are quite a few treatments available. Do not panic I am sure there will be something that suits you. Weight bearing exercise is always helpful too.
Thank you so much.
I had a fall and they diagnosed osteoporosis. I took alendronic acid for five years and had another dexa scan that showed my bones had improved and was moved into osteopenia category. Having two or three years off alendronic acid now. I'm 68 now. I think bones thin anyway as we get older.
I have been having Dexa Scans over the years with great success.Your GP probably just wants to give you the results of the blood test and if needed he will put the ball in motion. It is usually one scan a year for 3 years and is quite painless. I am usually given my next date after the scan with the necessary blood form to have it checked before you have it. Hope this helps
I may have confused you. It is the infusion you have once a year for 3 years. The Dexa Scan is to see whether you need any more
You are not the only confused one Sheila_G, I had a bone Dexa Scan with results being normal. Previous to it I had two compressed fractures in my spine caused when I over reached. I have a telephone appointment with a GP on Monday re Alendronic Acid or Denosumab. I have had RA for 33 years and I am 72.
Take Care
Thank you. Good luck with your appointment.
Can I offer you a suggestion, from experience? If you are offered denosumab do think carefully before committing. With it being an infusion should you have side effects they're not easily rectified, unlike oral ones such as alendronate (alendronic acid) which you can stop or try another tablet.
Thanks for the advice. This is what is making me nervous. I don't want anything to upset the apple cart regarding meds. I want to try changing my diet first. I'll let you know how I get on. Appointment on 23rd Feb
at the end of the day you can say no if they offer you infusions. I did for the very reasons nmh stated. There are other options so I’d wait and see what your GP says first before worrying about something that might not even be what they’re going to talk to you about 🤞🏻😊
I’ve had several DEXA scans, No osteoporosis yet! I take Alendronic acid 3 years on, 2 years off, and twice daily calcium tablets.
Hiya Sheila. I have them biennially, although it got to 3 years when I had mine last year, probably due to coronavirus. I would think your GP is calling you in to discuss medicating if the results dictated it. My GP used to take the lead in medicating me as osteopenic/borderline osteoporotic.
It's easy for me to say but try not to worry, it may be that they're being cautious, especially if you told the radiologist you have family history, that is if they went through the questionnaire with you prior to the scan.
I tried 2 oral bisphosphonates (alendronate & risedronate) but neither agreed with me. My GP suggested to my Rheumy that I tried infusions but Rheumy considered I’d have the same symptoms but exacerbated so that put an end to that. What was suggested though was I continued on Adcal-D3 twice daily & introduce more dairy into my diet, which was no biggie, love pretty much all dairy, especially cream in my coffee! My FRAX & T score have remained within limits for diagnosis since so something's working. Never had a fracture prior to being diagnosed or since.
Let us know how you get on & we'll help with any other questions it may bring.
Hiya nmh. Thanks for this. I didn't tell anyone about my mum. It was a Clinician who rang to ask me questions about RA and I happened to mention that I hadn't had a dexa scan for a few years so he booked me in for one. It sounds like it was a good idea. I do have a lot of issues with my lower back so I shall have to wait and see. I thought about you today when I was in Honeywell stocking up for a family get together on Sunday.
I had to remind the locum Rheumy I saw last time too. You'll have to see just what it is your GP has asked to see you for but at least with all the responses you're had you're possibly better prepared.
Ooo, yum. What are you having? I had a fillet steak last Saturday, one of 3 my h cut off the Christmas roast for me before he showed it the oven! Enjoy the day with your family, it will be a lovely distraction.
Thank you. It certainly will. Lots of goodies for a buffet and too much pud probably.
Hi Sheila, really sorry to hear of your worry. My mam had osteoporosis & did well on Alendronic Acid after she'd somehow acquired a fractured pelvis without realising it. She also broke her wrist in a bad fall when 86, but remarkably recovered well. She was tiny, fragile & with various illnesses, but managed her osteoporosis which was a success really. As some comments say below, treatment has improved. I'm waiting for a DEXA scan, but bit of a wait. Wishing you all the best Sheila x
Thank you for your reply and kind words.
I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in Nov 21, after fracturing my pelvis. I started Alendronic Acid once a week and no problems whatsoever. Make sure you have plenty of calcium in your diet especially foods like dairy and dark green veg etc. Vit D and k important as well x
Similar to yourself I requested a scan when had an R A review. Outcome I do have osteoporosis. My letter was to see an endocrinologist who are the experts. Not sure if it works that way where you are. My GP was informed but he didn't offer the medication. Wishing you all the best.
Thank you for your reply. I don't know why you would have to see an endocrinologist but I see one for my thyroid.
I think its to do with the hyperparathyroid glands, I didn't understand why either but my details were passed from the consultant who deals with that to my own RA consultant as he could see I had an appt coming up.
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