Maintaining strong bones is a key part of aging well. At Internal Medicine of Greater New Haven, our board-certified physicians use bone density testing to identify risks before a fracture occurs. This scan, often called a DEXA scan, measures the amount of calcium and other bone minerals packed into a segment of bone.
Two conditions are associated with bone loss: osteoporosis and osteopenia. Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become porous and fragile, making them more likely to break. Osteopenia is the midpoint between healthy bones and osteoporosis. It means your bone density is lower than average, but not yet at the level that indicates a full-blown disease state.
While anyone can develop osteoporosis, women face a higher risk due to the drop in estrogen during menopause. You should prioritize a scan if you meet these criteria:
However, men are not immune to bone loss. Approximately 2 million American men have osteoporosis, and another 12 million are at risk for it.
A Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan is a quick and painless outpatient procedure. You'll lie on a padded table while a scanner passes over your body. Usually, the technician focuses on the hip and spine. Unlike an MRI, the machine isn't an enclosed tunnel, so it's a comfortable experience for most patients.
Prep is minimal. You should eat normally on the day of the test, but stop taking calcium supplements at least 24 hours before your appointment. This includes multivitamins that contain calcium. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid outfits with metal zippers, belts, or buttons, as metal interferes with the X-ray images.
We typically follow the standard Medicare guidelines, which cover a DEXA scan every 24 months for at least one of five specific categories of at-risk patients.
If your initial results show normal bone density, you might wait longer between tests. However, if you're diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, more frequent monitoring helps our experts track the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
Osteoporosis is often a silent condition. You might not know your bones are thinning until you trip and break a hip or wrist. Early detection through a simple, painless scan allows our team to recommend lifestyle changes or medications that strengthen your skeletal system and keep you mobile.
To learn more, contact Internal Medicine of Greater New Haven online or by phone.
