Why a bone scan?

[cassie1208]

A month ago I was phoned by GP to say vitamin D levels low and advised me to take over the counter high dose.

Then today I went to see GP and he has referred me for a bone scan.

Has anyone else with PMR had this?

Bit concerned!!!

Thank you

[HeronNS]

Is it to check your bone density, a DXA scan? If so, you should be pleased it's being offered. Not something to worry you.

[SheffieldJane]

You are lucky not to have to fight for one Cassie. Taking steroids can weaken the bones. It is very useful to know your bone density before they prescribe Biophosphates these drugs can have alarming side effects, and are often prescribed, wrongly, for people with healthy bones.I am surprised that you haven't been prescribed v high dose vitamin D for your deficiency for a short term boost, then a maintenance dose of Adcal ( Calcium and vit D). That's what they did with me. My bone density was really good, following my bone scan results. It should be routine for all of us.

Worry not, you have a thorough doctor.

[SnazzyD]

If that is the only reason for a scan then it probably is a DEXA. As well as the effect of Pred on the bones is the effect of having a low Vit D. In order for the body to use calcium it needs good Vit D levels. If you've been low, then you may not have had much calcium going in before you started the Pred. I had to ask for my DEXA scan otherwise they wouldn't have done it. So, time to be happy not alarmed 🙂

[cassie1208 in reply to SnazzyD]

Well explained thank you all - I didn’t look at it like I was lucky to have one but now I see that I have a good GP and after the results he may prescribe something only if necessary

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It is a dexascan - to measure the density of your bones. It is recommended when someone is on pred. Many people can't get one when they ask - you are lucky to be offered one!

[Rugger]

Hi Cassie

In my experience and from what I've read here, the way to raise a low vitamin D level is with a prescribed megadose, as Sheffield Jane mentions and not with anything you can buy over the counter. After that, you should be prescribed a daily calcium and vitamin D preparation.

My megadose was 50,000 IU (International Units) once a week for 8 weeks, compared with the daily dose of 800IU. Others have mentioned different doses, but all very much higher than the daily amount. My blood test was repeated after taking the megadose and the level was up to the top of the 'normal' range.

As the others say, it's good to hear you have a doctor who is screening you.

[cassie1208]

Thanks for advice I was prescribed a mega dose of vit D two years ago and that was it - I will ask GP