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Why should you get a bone density test?

A bone density test is a test that is performed to gauge the strength of the bone. The density of the bone is measured and the chances of fractures and osteoporosis are determined. It is a simple noninvasive test, where a dual x-ray absorptiometry scan is performed. It is mostly done in the spine, hip, finger, wrist, or heel.

Why you should get a bone density test?
Fractured bone
If you have had a fracture previously or are prone to such incidents, it is recommended that you immediately get a bone density test.

If bone density is low, then there are more chances of fractures. A bone density test will help doctors to determine if the fracture is due to any underlying causes. It can be treated by medicines and a diet filled with vitamin D and calcium.

Lost height
If you have a recorded measure of the decrease in height, get your bone density tested immediately. There’s a chance that the decline is due to low bone density. Although such cases are very rare, it’s better to be on the safe side and get yourself tested as soon as possible.

Severely underweight
People who are severely underweight (below 127 pounds) should also get their bone density tested. Not only are they weak, but their bone density can be very low. This increases the chances of fracture with even small impacts to the bone. The low weight could be due to improper consumption of food and inadequate nutrition. This also means that the person might not have the required calcium intake. That leads to bone density. Hence it’s important that people who are underweight get a bone density test.

Received a transplant
If you have recently received a transplant, then you should be aware that the body will take some time to adjust itself to the new organ. The time it takes might cause fluctuations in bone density. In these cases, it’s important to get yourself tested and monitored so that there’s no issue that develops.

Drop in hormone levels
If there is a sudden drop in hormones due to medication or steroids you have recently taken, you must get a bone density test. There are high chances that the drugs can cause adverse effects to your bone density level.

Family history of osteoporosis
If you have a family member who was diagnosed with osteoporosis, then there is a chance that you might suffer from it as well. It’s been found that it can be passed on from one generation to another. Since it can be treated at the initial stages, get regular bone density tests. These tests can reveal if there is any drop in bone density.

Women aged 50 and above
Since women above 50 go through menopause, estrogen production in their body decreases. This has adverse effects on bone density. It has been shown that women may experience 2530% bone loss in the first five years after menopause. Hence, frequent bone density tests should be taken and diet should be modified accordingly.
Smoking, hyperthyroidism, and physical inactivity can also lead to problems with bone density. It is important to follow a balanced diet that has increased amounts of vitamin D and calcium to keep bone density levels in check.

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