Some patients may question the importance of a bone density scan. Bone density scans are given less fanfare than heart scans or lung scans because they do not scan a vital organ in the body. However, as people age and osteoporosis becomes a greater risk, a bone density scan can help detect fractures and will take a volumetric measure of the patient's bone density. By detecting mineral loss in the bone, physicians are able to correct the deficiency and allow the patient to lead a healthier life.
A bone density scan is usually included in a full body scan, but may also be provided on its own. This scan helps to determine the strength of the bones and the probability of fractures in people who are at risk of osteoporosis. By detecting this early, patients at risk of osteoporosis will be provided with the appropriate treatment and will hopefully be able to avoid any pain and discomfort associated with fractures due to osteoporosis.
This silent disease affects many people as they get older and with thorough scans such as a bone density scan, patients are able to prevent many injuries that may have occurred due to poor bone strength and health. Most people do not know they have osteoporosis until they sustain a bump, strain or fall that may cause a bone to fracture or a vertebra to collapse. For this reason, it is sometimes referred to as a silent disease. Patients should try to avoid being diagnosed with osteoporosis only because they fell and fractured a bone. Preventive measures and safety precautions can be taken if they are diagnosed in time, before a painful accident happens.
Several factors may lead to the development of osteoporosis as people age. Genetic factors may play a role. Underlying medical conditions and the use of certain medications may cause poor bone health as well. Normal aging may also lead to osteoporosis.
In a bone density scan, X-rays are used to scan certain weight-bearing bones in the patient's body. The results are compared to the expected results for the patient's age, height and weight and the risk or degree of osteoporosis is determined. A doctor will then determine the patient's risk of fractures.
Patients wondering if they are at a high risk of osteoporosis and whether a bone density scan will be helpful in determining their own risk of fractures should consult a physician. Post-menopausal women under the age of 65 at risk of fractures should undergo a bone density scan. Women 65 and older, women considering therapy for osteoporosis, women on hormone replacement therapy for prolonged periods, men at risk of osteoporosis, men and women on steroid therapy, men and women with bowel problems resulting in malabsorption may all benefit from a bone density scan.
Patients with questions about whether a bone density scan is a necessity should consult their physician or a radiologist that offers this service. A bone density scan is important for people at risk of osteoporosis and may be helpful for men and women who have been diagnosed with the disease. A physician will be more helpful in determining if a patient should undergo a bone density scan.
Several clinics in Midlothian, Virginia offer this scan, so patients should be selective when deciding which clinic best fits their needs. Patients should seek service from a clinic that provides patients with these services using only the very latest equipment and proven machines that have a good safety record. This not only ensures patient safety, but also helps to provide clearer, more accurate scans so that patients walk away satisfied and thoroughly treated.
Learn more about bone density in Midlothian, Virginia.
