The ‘DXA’ can help see if your bones are at risk
By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
Of course, you will likely receive an x-ray if you break a bone so the provider can set the bone.
But did you know that there’s a diagnostic scan that can look at your bones’ density?
The DXA (also called a “dexa”) scan looks at the mineral content of your bones to help providers determine if you have osteopenia or osteoporosis.
Using low level radiation, the DXA typically scans the spine and pelvic area, which are common areas for bone breaks in older adults. But other populations may want to ask their providers about a DXA as well.
Physician Carole Peterson, who provides women’s healthcare at URMC’s Perinton Medical Center, said that the risk factors include being a small-framed, post-menopausal woman; celiac disease; being a man over age 65; decreased bone density from medications; anorexia, wheelchair use; family history of bone breaks and metabolic disease.
Other factors could include some autoimmune diseases; tobacco use; more than three servings of alcohol daily; vitamin D deficiency; and use of certain medications. These include corticosteroids, some kinds of cancer medication, some types of immunosuppressants, hormone suppressants, some types of seizure medications, proton pump inhibitors that treat acid reflux and GERD, and Heparin, a blood thinner.
“It’s important to have the scan,” Peterson said. “There are 200 million in the US who have osteoporosis, and a significant number will have a fracture. People who fracture the spine or hip, their fatality rate is 20% in the next year. They may lose independence. As we age, we lose bone. DEXA is an intervention.”
The scan doesn’t treat fragile bones; however, it can give providers and patients and idea of whether the bones are at risk for fracture and what steps they can take to reduce that risk.
Geriatrician Ahmed Rab, medical director of the Episcopal Church Home and the lead physician for Unity Geriatrics, said that people with more risk factors may be screened earlier, but most people 65-plus should have the scan. Younger people who may qualify have “a family history of osteoporosis; those with history of fractures; low body weight or BMI of less than 19; heavy steroid use or smoking; for men, those over 70 get screened and those younger than 70 with the above risk factors or low testosterone.”
The scan takes mere minutes and is painless. Patients may eat and drink normally but are asked to forgo any calcium supplements for 24 hours before the test. Pregnant women should not receive a DXA scan. Patients must also wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal trim or closures like zippers or buckles.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the best ways to strengthen your bones are:
Exercising more often: Regular physical activity strengthens your bones. Walking, yoga and strength training are great ways to stay active and prevent bone loss.
Supplements or eating specific foods: Your provider might suggest that you take a vitamin D or calcium supplement to support your bone health. You might need to eat more foods high in certain vitamins and minerals.
Medication: Your provider might prescribe medications that help slow down bone loss and prevent fractures. Some medications for osteoporosis may help build your bone density.