Dexa scans for bone density

[Guest guest]

I first learned I had osteoporosis after I felt a rib snap when I tripped and fell, with the diagnosis confirmed by a DEXA scan. Admittedly, this was about a dozen years ago, before the connection between osteoporosis/osteopenia and HIV disease was known. However, knowing that I had osteoporosis and that I was in danger of further fractures motivated me to seek the most aggressive treatment available, including Fosamax as well as calcium, vitamin D and testosterone. It's one to know that we're all at risk for bone density loss due to HIV and should be taking calcium and vitamin D. It is another thing to learn that one's bone density is so impaired that we're in danger of fractures from normal activities. I think people with HIV should get DEXA scans so they know just how bad

their problem is and can decide accordingly how aggressive they want to be in addressing the problem. Also, I doubt that an insurance company would pay for Fosamax and other drugs that improve bone density without a DEXA scan. But I sure wish the radiology clinics that they send us too weren't all decorated in soft pink florals for their predominantly female clientele, lol.********************************************************************, we don't really disagree. I just don't see the need to spend the

money on a scan!

You say: The evidence is overwhelming that most of us have low bone density

at younger ages than normal. And only information motivates most people to

do something about it. We will soon see guidelines on bone disease changed

to include HIV as a risk factor. I know people who have fractured ribs after

coughing, or feet after using a trade mill. They found out that they had

severe bone loss and that their bones can only improve 3 percent a year

after they start aggressive treatment.

So - who needs a scan? Talk to your doctor about taking steps to reduce

fracture risk, right away!