A DXA scan is the only test recommended by the Irish Osteoporosis Society www.irishosteoporosis.ie for screening and diagnosing Osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become less dense, causing them to fracture (break) more easily. It is a silent disease because there are no signs or symptoms prior to a person breaking (fracturing) bones. The effects of undiagnosed or untreated osteoporosis can be devastating, therefore the prevention and early detection of Osteoporosis are so important.
Regardless of gender and age, you should have a DXA scan if you display one or more of the following risk factors for osteoporosis:
Who is at Risk?
- Those who have a family history of osteoporosis?
- Menopause before age 45 years
- Low levels of oestrogen in women, which results in irregular periods or loss of periods
- A broken bone from a trip and fall from a standing position
- Steroid therapy for a variety of conditions e.g. rheumatoid arthritis or use of oral steroids for asthma
- Smoking
- Alcohol abuse
- Eating disorders e.g. anorexia, bulimia or binge eating, over-exercising with insufficient calorie intake, irregular or loss of periods (not due to pregnancy)
- Certain medical conditions including Crohn’s Disease, Coeliac Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Haemochromatosis
- People who are wheelchair or bed-bound for 6 weeks or long term
- Radiation, chemotherapy, arimidex, warfarin, and heparin
- In Men: low levels of testosterone.
An Osteoporosis DXA scan appointment can be arranged by booking online or by calling 097 82434. (link to page)
