Dexa Scan

[Booklover21]

Just looking for a bit of advice. I have been on Pred since Oct 21 and have tapered down to 5mg. One of the reasons I have not tried to reduce further is because I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in Dec 21 and was having treatment in 2022 & 2023. Now all this is completed and I am on Anastrozol for the next 4 years. My doctor arranged a Dexa Scan in 2022 and every year due to this medication and Pred. The last scan result s are through and show a deterioration of 4% so the Dr wants to speak to me about bone medication. I really done want to take anymore especially AA. They are suggesting Denosumab or Zoledrante. My total spinal T score is -2.4 from -2.0, Neck of Femur is -2 from -1.6, and total hip is -0.6 from -0.4. I take Adcal and try to have a good diet. I don’t want to take anything else and any advice how to deal with the Dr on this is appreciated

[piglette]

You can improve your bone density by weight bearing. Some people use a weight jacket to help build up bone density. You could also look at the Royal Osteoporosis Society website theros.org.uk who have some excellent information.

[Booklover21 in reply to piglette]

Thanks

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Agree with piglette contact ROS - they have a very good helpline ,,,

[PMRpro Ambassador]

You need to have a sensible discussion with someone, and ROS is ideal, but in view of the BC diagnosis and the use of anastrozole I suspect you would be best advised to accept one of their suggestions because it reduces the level of circulating oestrogen and that also puts you at risk of loss of bone density. Both factors together when you are already borderline does put you at risk of it worsening.

[Booklover21 in reply to PMRpro]

thank you

[Booch]

get other opinions. Two Drs (rheumatologist and gyno) wanted me to start those meds. Finally one Dr z(endocrinologist). Said. You are in osteopenia in your hip and neck. Only arm is osteoporosis. He said. Increase core exercises calcium and D. I am taking Algae Cal which I believe in 110%.

[Booklover21 in reply to Booch]

Thank you