If your mind is popping with the question-Why can’t you take Calcium/ vitamin D supplements before the bone density test, it is because there may be instances that the calcium supplement is not completely dissolved. It can be interpreted by the DEXA instrument as an extra bone that in turn produces an inaccurate reading.
Though bone densitometry tests use a low dose of ionizing radiation, there are few risks associated with it. Always tell your health-official about the previous CT Scans and other types of X-Ray scanning. If you think you are pregnant, let your health-provider know beforehand. During pregnancy, the exposure to radiation must be less so that there are no birth defects. There are certain factors that need to be kept in mind while going for a bone density test. They include – metal jewelry, any kind of body piercing, Calcified arthritic sclerosis, healed bone fractures and any metallic clips from previous stomach surgery.
In a nutshell, Bone Mineral Test determines the bone mineral density. Your BMD has two norms generally-such as the healthy young adults – T score and age matched adults, your Z score.
How to get ready for a bone density test ?
Your healthcare provider will explain to you the process with utmost patience and care, leaving no room for doubts. There is no preparation needed, but there is supposed to be no intake meals and no new medicines and supplements. Make sure to pin in if you are pregnant to the health official available.
Steps to be taken after a bone density test –
- Make sure you know the name of the test and the procedure.
- The results you are expecting and what they mean, be sure to check with the health officials.
- The risks and benefits of the test before going for the procedure.
- What are the possible side effects of the test maybe ?
- Are there any other alternatives to think about during the test?
- Keep these questions in mind before going for the test.
The process of the bone density test is not complicated at all. You may be asked to stay dressed and be advised to remove all the e metallic objects before going in for the test such as the belt buckles, coins, keys, jewelry and eyeglasses. Lay down on an X-ray table on your back. Don’t worry! Your legs will be supported on a padded box.
The equipment is supported with a detecting X-Ray camera above the table so that it can produce a photon generator beneath the patient table.If the radius of a bone in the forearm or your heels are being scanned, then the computer will measure the amount of photons that are absorbed by the bones to determine the mineral content of the bones. The whole process may take anywhere between 30 minutes or so. Though the process of this test is completely painless, if there is discomfort or pain already it might cause some trouble as there will be movements.
