Osteoporosis is a potentially crippling disease that affects over 75 million people worldwide.
What is a Bone Density Scan?
Osteoporosis is one of the most preventative diseases today.
Each year over one million people have a hip fracture, which can devastate a persons ability to walk unassisted, and in 50% of the cases, a person may never regain their independence.
A bone density scan uses dual-energy x-rays to measure bone loss. The most common areas of interest are the hips and lower spine.
When is a DEXA scan recommended?
A DEXA scan may be recommended if you have an increased risk of developing a bone problem like osteoporosis. Your risk is increased if you: have had a broken bone after a minor fall or injury; have a health condition, such as arthritis, that can lead to low bone density; have been taking medicines called oral glucocorticoids for 3 months or more – glucocorticoids are used to treat inflammation, but can also cause weakened bones.
If you are a woman who has had an early menopause or have large gaps between periods (more than a year), you may have higher risk.
How do I prepare DEXA Bone Scan?
Please remember to bring your prescription and insurance card with you on the day of your appointment.
You may eat normally on the day of the exam, however, you should not take any calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to the exam. You may be asked to remove jewelry or eye glasses that might interfere with the x-ray. Inform your physician if you’ve recently had a barium examination or have been injected with a contrast material.
You should ALWAYS inform your doctor if there is even a possibility of you being pregnant.