Osteoporosis and Bone Density Tests: Do you need to get it done?

Bone density tests, also known as bone mineral density tests are carried out to check how strong the bones are by checking a small part of them. Many people tend to get a bone-density test every couple of years to determine whether they have osteoporosis or significant loss in bone density. These test results help the doctor ascertain whether you’re suffering from bone loss or not and guide the way further to improve your bone health.?

Men under the age of 70 and women under the age of 65 don’t require the test most times as most people don’t suffer from extensive bone loss. Most of the population suffers from mild bone loss known as osteopenia or has no bone loss. As the risk of breaking the bone is next to none, they don’t need to get tested. Instead, the doctors recommend exercising regularly and getting ample calcium and vitamin D. As a bone-density test gives off small amounts of radiation, the exposure can eventually add up and pose a risk to one’s health.?

Should you get a bone-density scan?

For men and women aged 50-69, those suffering from the following risk factors for bone loss must be tested. The risk factors are:

1) Having rheumatoid arthritis?

2) Smoking?

3) Extensive drinking?

4) Low body weight?

5) Having disorders associated with osteoporosis?

6) Breaking a bone?

?How to keep your bones strong?

?1) Avoid smoking and limit alcohol?

Smoking and drinking can seriously speed up bone loss. If you are a regular smoker or drinker, try investing in a stop-spoking programme or experimenting with treatments as your doctor advised.?

?2) Exercise?

Try to do weight training for 30 minutes every day as the best exercises include the ones that make your bones carry weight. Also, incorporate walking daily for overall health improvement.?

Do I need to get a bone density test to check my osteoporosis treatment??

According to most doctors worldwide, most people don’t require repeat testing in the first three years of their osteoporosis treatment. Repeat scans dint show the difference between an actual increase in the bone density due to the treatment and the change in how the machine measures it. This is because bone density tends to change very slowly with the treatment, meaning the differences must be smaller than the measurement error of the machine.?

However, it is recommended to consult your doctor and follow their suggestions.?