Bone Density Test/More Malabsorption problems

[Guest guest]

Hi Friends,

The internist's nurse called me today with the results of the bone

density test I had on Monday. Her news wasn't altogether as

good as I'd hoped for. My mammogram was great, YIPEE, but

the bone density scan showed clear evidence of osteopenia in

my femur. Turns out that this beginning stage of osteoporsis is

the result of malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D. This whole

malabsorption problem caused by my pancreatic dysfunction is

becoming more alarming as we learn more. The nurse said that

right now there is only slight concern about hidden bone

fractures, but that this problem will increase with age. Oh, lordy,

what else?

I'm getting up bright and early for my MRCP which is scheduled

for 9:00 am at the hospital in Savannah. Wish me luck on this

procedure. I'm hoping that whatever they find will resolve the

whole question of how to handle my pseudocyst drainage. I'm

hoping that they can do another fine needle aspiration this time

around, and not surgery, and I believe that is what my GI is

hoping for, too. I really don't want to go under the knife for this

thing.

I'll keep you all posted whenever I hear the results. I'm getting

really depressed with all this waiting around for answers that

carry such weight and will determine so much of what lies

ahead, but I know that the doctor's thoroughness and extra

testing is in my best interests.....I just wish all of this was over.

With hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

Southeastern Rep

PAI, Intl.

Note: All advice or comments are personal opinion only, and

should not be substituted for professional medical consultation.

[Guest guest]

Heidi,

So sorry that your news wasn't better. I'll put you in my prayers

for better results on today's procedure.

Best wishes,

Anne

[Guest guest]

Dear Heidi,

I was diagnosed with osteopenia nearly 2 yrs ago. I was truly borderline

osteoporosis! Because of my various gastro disorders and because I'm so nauseous

and can't be sure I can stay sitting up for the 1/2 hr. required by some of the

osteoporosis meds (actonel, fosamax), my Gastro doctor gave me something called

didronel. I take the 400mg tablets. I take it only for 14 days out of every 3

months. I believe it's frontline treatment for diseases like Paget's where bone

strengthening is important. Anyway, my last DEXA scan was much improved. In

fact, one side is borderline normal now! Might be something to discuss with

your doctor.

Be well

Jill

the bone density scan showed clear evidence of osteopenia in

my femur. Turns out that this beginning stage of osteoporsis is

the result of malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D.

[Guest guest]

Jill,

All that's been recommended for right now is 500 mg. of calcium

and vitamin D (for absorption) daily, and the use of leg weights

around my ankles for when I'm walking. I'm supposed to see my

internist in two weeks and then her nurse said she may (the

Internist) recommend further treatment, i.e; medication.

What is this about having to sit up 1/2 for certain meds? What is

that supposed to do, or why is it necessary? Just curious, I'd like

to know more about this myself before I see the doctor.

With hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

Regional Rep.

PAI, Intl.

Note: All comments or advice are personal opinion only, and

should not be substituted for professional medical consultation.

> I was diagnosed with osteopenia nearly 2 yrs ago. I was truly

borderline osteoporosis! Because of my various gastro

disorders and because I'm so nauseous and can't be sure I can

stay sitting up for the 1/2 hr. required by some of the

osteoporosis meds (actonel, fosamax), my Gastro doctor gave

me something called didronel. I take the 400mg tablets. I take it

only for 14 days out of every 3 months. I believe it's frontline

treatment for diseases like Paget's where bone strengthening is

important. Anyway, my last DEXA scan was much improved. In

fact, one side is borderline normal now! Might be something to

discuss with your doctor.

Be well

Jill