Repeat DEXA scan?

[nogutsnoglory]

I had a DEXA scan a year ago which showed osteoporosis and I was in such bad shape that we delayed bone treatment till my crohns was better. I am now looking to revisit this issue because my joints still hurt. Is it possible if I repeat a scan that the signs of osteoporosis will have gone away? I am now having crohns treated properly and I take vit D and k2 so hope it made things better.

I would hate to start osteoporosis treatment not knowing if maybe it's not needed anymore but at the same time I don't want more radiation unnecessarily.

 

[Tuff]

I have osteopenia. I too worry about all the radiation I've had. Keep in mind, that with osteoporosis you are vulnerable to fractures, especially the hip and back, and you don't want to go there on top of everything else you have. I don't think you could have cured it in one year, ask your doctor. Don't take chances.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

I know, I'm afraid of that. I'm young but my last scan was bad and the Dr wants me on an infusion.

 

[LindaS]

A DEXA scan has minimal radiation, I think it is less than a dental x-ray. If it is necessary to determine treatment, I'd have it. I have osteoporosis and if a DEXA was recommended, I'd have it without hesitation. A CT scan on the other hand, I'd want to know exactly why it was needed more than any other test.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

They said the radiation is equivalent to a cross country flight.