DEXA Scan (BMD)
As you age, the bones tend to become thin, weak, and porous. This affects bone density, resulting in one of the most common health problems – osteoporosis. When you have this condition, the bones become so thin and weak that they tend to break easily. Unfortunately, you may not know that you have osteoporosis until there is a fracture.
Therefore, doctors recommend getting a bone mineral density (BMD) test done to assess the risk of osteoporosis, particularly in older adults and women. Also known as Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, a BMD test helps measure the amount of calcium or other minerals you have in your bones.
Osteoporosis may happen to anyone, especially when you are aging. It primarily affects older women; however, even men can have osteoporosis. Check below to understand when you should get a DEXA scan done:
- You are 65 years or older
- You are a woman in your menopause with a high risk of fracture
- You are 50 years or older and already have had your menopause
- You have broken a bone post 50 years of age
- You have unexplained back pain and your body posture is hunched
- You tend to lose 1.5 inches of your height
- You recently had an organ transplant
- You have irregular periods or your periods have stopped but you are not menopausal or pregnant.
Certain kinds of prescribed drugs may also cause bone loss or a lack of calcium in the bones.
If you fall under any of these categories, it is important to get a bone mineral density test done.
A Dexa Scan uses low dose X-Rays to see how dense (or strong) your bones are. A DEXA scan is a non-invasive, high-precision diagnostic imaging procedure that helps measure your bone mineral density. During the test, you will need to lie down on your back and then our skilled technologist will position you correctly. We use the latest DEXA scanner that uses two beams of x-ray to precisely measure the mineral density of your bones.
Once the procedure is complete, the DEXA scanner will graphically present the measurements for easy & quick diagnosis. The x-ray beams use safe amounts of radiation and therefore, the test does not have any potential side effects.