I have a great new IBD GI doc at UCSD now that has put me into remission (I think). She ordered a DEXA bone density scan based on previous steroid use. My former doctor had me on Entocort at varying doses for about 5 years. Before that I had one 4 month course of Prednisone in 1998, and lots of IV steroids in 1999 before I had surgery. Also a short 2 month course of Prednisone from August-October of this year.
Now my bone scan reveals that I have between 1.8 and 2.5 standard deviations BELOW normal bone density for my age/ethnicity/etc. It's pretty bad. I asked my step dad about it since he's a GI doctor and he said just regular Crohn's can give you lowered bone density too due to malabsorption issues.
Anyway, I have been referred to an Endocrinologist for followup. I am kind of dismayed/pissed off. My new doctor seemed to think it was mostly from the 5 years of Entocort use. WTF!!! Don't let any doctor keep you on steroids that long!!!
Now my bone scan reveals that I have between 1.8 and 2.5 standard deviations BELOW normal bone density for my age/ethnicity/etc. It's pretty bad. I asked my step dad about it since he's a GI doctor and he said just regular Crohn's can give you lowered bone density too due to malabsorption issues.
Anyway, I have been referred to an Endocrinologist for followup. I am kind of dismayed/pissed off. My new doctor seemed to think it was mostly from the 5 years of Entocort use. WTF!!! Don't let any doctor keep you on steroids that long!!!