Your bone density examination may be the easiest medical examination you will have over the course of your life.
Basically,
all it involves is for you to lie back and let the bone densitometer do
the work. However, there are always valid concerns about any medical
procedure.
For your peace of mind, we'll address these important questions.
REASONS FOR BMD (BONE MINERAL DENSITY) TESTING
YOUR DOCTOR MAY RECOMMEND A BMD TEST TO HELP:
• Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis
• Detect low bone density before a fracture occurs
• Determine your rate of bone loss if the test is repeated over time
• Monitor the effects of treatment over a time
Your
physician may recommend that you have a BMD test for several reasons -
for example, if you are post menopausal, taking steroid medication,
have hyperthyroidism, or have had a fracture in which osteoporosis is
suspected.
EARLY DIAGNOSIS CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE
With
the results of your BMD test, you and your doctor can determine what
lifestyle changes or treatment measures should be taken, or if
additional tests are appropriate. Remember: If osteoporosis is
diagnosed, treatments are available that can increase bone density and
reduce the risk of fracture.
WILL IT HURT?
Absolutely not. There is no pain at all associated with a bone densitometry examination.
IS THE EXAMINATION SAFE?
Bone
densitometry involves an extremely small dose of radiation. How small?
An AP spine can deliver llessthan one-tenth the dosage of a chest
x-ray. As in any medical procedure, if you are pregnant be sure to
inform your physician.
IS THERE SPECIAL PREPARATION INVOLVED?
Unlike
many other medical examinations, no special preparation is required.
There are no painful contrast injections, bad-tasting oral preparation
or uncomfortable enemas.
DO I HAVE TO ALTER MY EATING HABITS?
This
is not an examination that requires you to have an empty stomach, drink
a certain amount of water, or any other such pre-examination
preparation on your part.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Wear any kind of clothing you like, but please avoid metal button, buckles, or zippers.
WHAT DO I DO DURING THE EXAMINATION?
Lie still. Breathe normally. Rest comfortably.
HOW LONG WILL THE EXAMINATION TAKE?
Spine
or femur measurements take approximately two to five minutes while
total boy measurements take approximately ten to fifteen minutes. Your
physician will determine the examination that is best for you.
WHAT WILL THE EXAMINATION DETERMINE?
The
bone densitometer will measure your bone mineral density (BMD). It will
also compare your measurements to a reference population based on your
age, weight, sex and ethnic background. This information will be used
by your physician in making a diagnosis about your bone status and
fracture risk.
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