How often should I have a bone density test if I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis?
I was diagnosed with osteoporosis about a year and a half ago at the age of 54. My mother and her mother both had the disease. I am not wanting to go on any of the medications as yet and am using diet, exercise, calcium and Vitamin D to hopefully delay using medications for my condition, as I am so fearful of the side-effects. I tend to really suffer with medication side effects. I would like to know if what I am doing to take care of myself is working or if my osteoporosis has progressed and wonder how often a bone density test is safe or needed.
Thanks so much,
Lainie
It's a good idea to monitor your bone health, especially because you've been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Regular bone mineral density (BMD) testing can tell you if the lifestyle/self-care measures you've chosen to take are working.
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, people who take medication for osteoporosis should have a BMD test by a central dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) machine every two years. If you're not on osteoporosis medication and are doing well (no fractures or additional risk factors), you might decide to have BMD testing every 3 to 5 years.
However, other things may need to be considered -- such as your age, other medical conditions you might have, or certain medications you could be taking -- so work closely with your doctor to determine to best testing schedule for you. - MG
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