Rally with Sally for Bone Health - Important Questions to Ask Your Doctor

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Are You at Risk for Breaking a Bone? [ What is my risk for breaking a bone due to osteoporosis? ] [ What can I do to reduce my risk of breaking a bone? ] [ What is a bone density scan and should I get one? ] [ If I had osteoporosis, would I know it? ] [ If I am diagnosed with osteoporosis, can I strengthen my bones by increasing my daily intake of calcium and vitamin D? ] It's important to take care of your bones, especially after menopause. Your doctor can help you take the necessary steps to maintain strong, healthy bones throughout life, so it is essential to ask the key questions. Below are five important questions to ask your doctor during your next visit:
	What is my risk for breaking a bone due to osteoporosis? One in two women over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis in her lifetime. Some women can be more at risk than others due to risk factors such as having gone through menopause, having a family history of osteoporosis, low bone mass, smoking, and drinking too much alcohol. You should work with your doctor to learn more about your personal risk.
	What can I do to reduce my risk of breaking a bone? The best way to reduce your risk is to talk with your doctor to develop a personalized prevention or treatment plan based on your needs. Beyond this, there are steps all women can take to do the right things for their bones like eating a proper diet and exercising regularly. Read all of the bone health tips.
	What is a bone density scan and should I get one? A bone mineral density (BMD) scan is a test that may help a doctor detect osteoporosis before a person suffers a broken bone due to the disease. It is commonly used to measure bone mass throughout the body. In general, all women age 65 and older should have a BMD test. Women at risk of bone disease, even if under age 65, should also be screened. The results of this test can help your doctor decide which prevention or treatment options are right for you. It is quick, accurate and painless.
	If I had osteoporosis, would I know it? Osteoporosis is known as a silent disease because it progresses over time without symptoms. Unfortunately, some women aren't diagnosed until they break a bone. That's why it is important to manage your bone health now – with the help of your doctor – and get a bone density scan, if appropriate.
	If I am diagnosed with osteoporosis, can I strengthen my bones by increasing my daily intake of calcium and vitamin D? An important study published in a leading medical journal showed that calcium and vitamin D, though helpful, alone may not be enough to protect your bones from breaking. For women with osteoporosis or low bone mass, medicine can be a key factor in keeping bones strong. There are prescription medications that can be taken daily, weekly or monthly to help build and maintain bone density. But no medicine can work if you don't take it. Several studies show that taking your osteoporosis medicine as prescribed by your doctor results in fewer broken bones. So if your doctor prescribes a medication, be sure to get it filled, and continue to take it as directed.
Talk to your doctor about how to manage your bone health, including diet, exercise, and treatment options.

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The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.

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This site is intended for U.S. residents only.

This site was last updated on 7/13/2010 .