Bone loss for both men and women comes with age. However, women have a higher risk of getting osteoporosis than men. Hormone changes at menopause affect bone density directly. After menopause, the estrogen levels, which are essential for healthy bones, fall, causing a rapid decrease in bone density.
Bone mineral densitometry is a test used to measure a person's bone mineral density (BMD). The measurements are used to diagnose osteoporosis, estimate the fracture risk, and assess response to treatment.
Do not take calcium tablets for 24 hours before your test. You will also have to refrain from have a nuclear medicine scan 48 hours before and do not have an x-ray examination with barium, or CT scan within the week of your BMD appointment.
The test is an X-ray scan of the spine and hip. Lie down on the flat, open the X-ray table, and remain still while the X-ray is being taken. For the spine examination, you propped up your legs to straighten the lumbar arch. For the hip examination, tilt your feet inwards. The whole process takes approximately 20 - 30 minutes, and there is no discomfort during the examination.
You can eat a normal diet on the day of the test.
You will be given a follow up appointment to review your test results.
Should you feel unwell after the test, contact your doctor immediately or call our 24-Hour Medical Urgency Clinic
