Bone mineral densitometry some of the time regarded to as a bone density test, is designed to detect whether you have osteoporosis, a word that comes from Greek and literally means ‘porous bone.’ While having this condition, your bones get weak and thin. They become more likely to break. It is a silent condition, and that means you feel no symptoms.
Without undergoing a bone density test, you might fail to realize that you have osteoporosis until you break a bone. In this regard, it always pays off to understand how this test works before settling on anything. Also, that is what this simple guide will assist with guaranteeing you unravel today.
In a nutshell, the bone density test is painless and quick. It estimates how dense or thick your bones are by utilizing X-rays. The X-rays measure how much calcium and minerals are in a part of your bone. The more minerals you have, the better. What this simply means is that your bones are stronger, denser and less likely to break. The lower your mineral content, the greater your choice of breaking a bone in a fall.
It is important to note that pretty much anybody can get osteoporosis. It is more common among older women; however men can have it too. Your chances increase as you age. You ought to discuss with your medical practitioner whether you want the test. The doctor might recommend bone mineral densitometry in the event that you’re a woman 65 or older, you’re a postmenopausal woman 50 or older, or you’re a woman at the age of menopause and have a high chance of breaking bones.
You’d be shocked to learn that a few types of prescription drugs can cause bone lose. They would incorporate glucocorticoids, a class of drugs used to reduce inflammation. Tell your medical practitioner in the event that you’ve been on cortisone, dexamethasone, or prednisone.
With bone mineral densitometry test, it examines the bones in your spine, hip, and forearm. These are the bones that are probably going to break when you have osteoporosis. The 2 types of bone density tests take less than 15 minutes and incorporate Central DXA and Peripheral test. Understanding how these tests work go a long way in ensuring you prepare yourself fully for anything that lies ahead.
Since you have an insight into what bone mineral densitometry entails why not consider consulting your medical practitioner before the test?
