Dexa Scan Results

[Legsandmore]

Hi, can anyone translate these test results for me please?

My GP has put me on Alendronic Acid one per week, 70mg and l am taking Vitamin K2, Vitamin D but unfortunately l cannot seem to tolerate the calcium supplements that we have tried, they give me terrible stomach problems even in small doses.

He previous scan indicated osteopenia and this one says Osteoporosis, so l understand it’s a worsening situation.

What wasn’t explained to me, was just how bad or not, the current scores are and what it might mean going forwards.

Any thoughts?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

The t-scores compare your current bone density with the average bone density of 30-year olds which is when your bone density is about at its maximum.

A t-score of -1.0 or better is normal, between -1.0 and -2.4 is classed as osteopenia or lowered bone density and -2.5 and worse is called osteoporosis.

The figure they are most concerned about are the hip readings - and yours are very close to osteoporosis. They are always concerned about hip readings because that is the dreaded injury in older patients - fractured neck of femur is all too often the end of independent living and in some cases a death sentence and it is scarily easy to have, just tripping on a kerb or falling awkwardly from standing is common.

If calcium supplements are a problem - and they often are - you could try a different one, that can make a difference. Calcium carbonate is often difficult - my husband used calcium citrate and was fine with that. He practically exploded on calcium carbonate - it is an antacid and simply didn't suit him.

Or sit down and identify how much you are getting in your diet. I only use milk in tea - I get a third of my calcium just from tea, I use no other milk. I eat cheese and yoghurt - both excellent sources of calcium.

healthline.com/nutrition/15...

Small amounts are to be found in many foods - and like Tesco's claim, every little helps. You may well find you have enough dietary calcium to cut the supplements to half, Beware articles about fortified foods - they apply to the USA and Canada, far fewer foods are fortified in the UK and Europe so check labels.

You do need to be sure you have plenty of calcium when on AA as it drives it into bone and you do risk having too low blood calcium if you aren't careful which can make you ill so your GP needs to check it every few months to be sure.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

From WHO -

T Scores -

between -1 and -2.5 is defined s mildly reduced bone mineral density [BMD], at or below -2.5 is defined as osteoporosis

Z Scores -

if your Z Score is below -2 it shows your bone density is lower than it should be for your age..