I had been sent for a DEXA scan after 20 years with RA and at the first scan, which is used as the baseline, I was well below normal bone density. My GP doctor told me to take calcium supplements and we'd see what happened. Over the next three years even with calcium, vitamin D, and hormones it just kept dropping. In that period I even exercised. When I went to the osteoporosis clinic they reviewed my diet for natural sources of calcium, kept me on the HRT, and upped the calcium and Vitamin D.
When I went back a year later my bone density had plummeted to the level of actual osteoporosis, not just osteopenia. At that point they prescribed a bisphosphonate - Fosavance. I took it weekly for the next four years and every year the density improved.
When they decided that the time had come to stop the prescription I protested because I was afraid that it would drop again. Now, one year and one scan after stopping the bone density drug, it has gone up yet again and is a little better than normal for my age and better than the baseline.
Don't take it from her. Smoking is bad for your bones.
That improved score leaves me wondering. I have read that osteoporosis is systemic, so if the bone density goes up does that mean I no longer have that condition? I will be looking for that answer.
It is also worth noting that during the last 5 years with the great improvement I have been taking a biologic drug and I have stopped drinking Cola soft drinks. That may have helped also.
Hooray - I finally figured out how to get the posts emailed to me. it was staring me in the face all the time, of course.
ReplyDeleteI wonder about osteoporosis. I was supposed to go on HRT after my emergency hysterectomy over 4 years ago, but I wasn't prepared to go that road after terrible experiences with the Pill. I haven't even thought about getting a bone density test. What does it involve? Do you have to ask the doctor for it?
Take care,
Jane
I'm glad you figured out how to get notifications. I am slowly learning more about blogging. Now I can add links also. Feel free to suggest improvements.
ReplyDeleteIt is easy to have a bone density test (DEXA scan) You lie down and the machine moves. They only measure the hip at the femoral neck and 4 levels in the lumbar spine. The first one is your baseline and they compare it to what is normal for your age and how you compare to a person with ideal bone mass.
The doctor does have to send you for the test. In Ontario now you can only have one every three years. So it will depend partly on your age
There are ways to get very small amounts of hormones. Maybe that would work? I heard Dr Ann Parke speak at a Sjogren's conference. She has theories about Sjogren's and hormones.
In the meantime I am sure you are well aware of the need for exercise, calcium and vitamin D (sigh).
Nice to hear from you
Annette