A DEXA scan happens to be a non - invasive test which is used to measure the bone mineral density. This helps doctors to understand how strong your bones really are. It is the only way to diagnose osteoporosis. DEXA or DXA scan stands for Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry that is a common test performed by doctors. This scan focuses on two major areas of your body - one being the spine and the other is the hip. These areas can give a doctor a proper idea regarding whether or not you are running the risk of getting any fractures in any bones of your body.
Why is DEXA scan performed?
The primary purpose of a DEXA scan is to detect brittle or weak bones. This helps to predict the odds of going through a future fracture and also helps to determine whether or not you are in need of medications to slow down the process of bone loss. At first a DEXA scan is performed which is then followed by several subsequent scans to compare the rate at which bone loss is occurring. What we are trying to say is, the procedure involves comparison of a baseline and second scan to show the doctor whether there are any signs of improvement, further damage, or whether everything is the same as before. This scan is also extremely useful to understand how well a particular osteoporosis treatment is going on. At Radiology Center at Harding, DEXA scans are used to assess whether a fracture was caused due osteoporosis.
What are the reasons that you need to avail a DEXA scan?
- Bone loss or break in your spine which also shows up in an x-ray.
- Spine fracture - If you are going through tremendous back pain then DEXA scan will help to understand whether or not it is spine fracture.
- If you feel shorter than you actually are over the last year.
- Did you lose around half an inch height? Then, DEXA scan can help to understand the reason behind it.
If you are in Morristown, New Jersey and are above the age of 65 years old (for men it is 70 years) then you must get yourself a DEXA scan at Radiology Center at Harding. There is age discrepancy because women suffer bone loss due to a decrease in estrogen which occurs due to the effects of menopause. That is the reason that women have a higher chance of developing lower bone density way sooner than men.
What are the reasons you should get a DEXA scan?
- If you have reached menopause but are not taking any estrogen.
- Anyone with maternal or personal history of having hip fracture.
- If you are a smoker or your mother smoked during her pregnancy.
- Men with clinical conditions like chronic kidney disease or rheumatoid arthritis.
- People suffering from liver disease, type I diabetes, kidney disease, or have a family history of osteoporosis.
Get yourself a DEXA scan and take care of your health the way it is supposed to.
Please Call us Today to schedule your Dexa appointment at 908-221-0603 or go online at HardingRadiology.com and click on appointment button.
