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Bone Densitometry
If you’re concerned about your current bone health and risk for fractures, your physician may recommend you get bone densitometry or bone density scan. Bone densitometry will measure both the density and the mineral content of the bones in your body. This test will determine if your bone density is at a healthy level or if any degeneration or development of brittleness has occurred. The loss of bone is referred to as osteoporosis, which is when the body isn’t able to produce new bone in conjunction with the degeneration of old bone.
Since osteoporosis is most commonly found in women, our gynecologist in Queens offers testing right here in our office. If you think you may require bone densitometry, learn about the most common reasons to receive this test below.
What is Osteoporosis:
Your bones are living tissue that is continuously being broken down and replaced. When it appears that this production of bone has ceased, then it is likely that you are suffering from Osteoporosis. Meaning that the creation of new bone in your body is not keeping up with the removal process. The likelihood of developing this condition depends on the amount of bone mass you gained while you were growing up and aging. As we grow older, we tend to lose bone mass faster than our bodies can produce it.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis:
Unfortunately, there aren’t many warning signs that are prevalent throughout the early stages of Osteoporosis. It is more likely that you will become aware of the condition after your bones have become weaker. You may notice some of the following symptoms:
- Back Pain
- Can be caused by the fractured/collapsed vertebra
- Over time, you find yourself decreasing in height
- You appear to have a stooped posture
- You begin suffering from fractured bones very easily
Aside from these symptoms, it may be time to seek out medical attention if you find you have gone through menopause early. Luckily, there is a gynecologist in Queens that can help determine whether or not you are suffering from this condition.
Reasons to Receive a Bone Densitometry:
Once you’ve decided to check in with your gynecologist in Queens, they’ll be able to go over your symptoms as well as to conduct an examination. From there, you’ll walk them through some of the recent symptoms you’ve been experiencing. Once that is done, a physician will determine if a Bone Densitometry scan is right for you. You’ll likely require this if any of the following apply to you:
- Have had a bone fracture from a minor injury.
- Minor impacts should not be enough to break a bone. If this happens, your bones may be weak and unable to withstand injury.
- Have had multiple bone fractures in a short amount of time.
- Have osteoporosis that runs in the family. Osteoporosis can be genetic, especially if the maternal side has had this condition.
- Are in post-menopause, which can cause fluctuation in hormones and mineral deficiencies.
- Have low calcium levels. Calcium is needed to keep bones strong.
- Have lower estrogen or testosterone levels than usual. These two sex hormones are required to keep bones healthy.
- Use medications that can cause bone loss, such as drugs that treat: cancer, heartburn, thyroid conditions, seizures, mood instabilities, blood pressure, and certain birth control medications.
- Have Rheumatoid Arthritis, Diabetes, Lupus, Cancer, Celiac Disease, Chronic Kidney or Liver Disease, or other conditions that can cause bone loss.
The Test:
Bone densitometry, performed by a gynecologist in Queens, is an outpatient procedure that is a non-invasive way to test your bone health. During the test, you will put on a hospital gown and lie down on a table. A small mechanical device will scan your body for any abnormalities in bone structure. It will record the mineral content and density. When the results come in, a doctor will determine the health of your bone structure.
At our gynecologist in Queens, we offer convenient office procedures. Women for Women Obstetrics & Gynecology will lead you through the testing and diagnostic process if you are concerned that you may have osteoporosis. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and discuss your concerns today.
