Calcium Score, CT scan
Bone density test, CT scan
A bone density test is done by using special x-rays that measure the amount of calcium as well as other bone minerals that are referred to as bone mineral content that is found in segments of your bones. The higher the mineral content, the denser the bones are said to be. Similarly, if the bones are denser, they are considered to be generally strong and cannot be broken. Doctors use bone density tests to determine if a patient is at a risk or not for osteoporosis or other bone diseases. The risk of osteoporosis is detected using bone density testing. Osteoporosis is a disease causing bones to become fragile and more likely to break.
The presence of osteoporosis is also detected after you break a bone. The bone density test is not identical to bone scans. Bone scans are generally used to detect cancer, fractures, infections and other bone abnormalities. It is highly recommended for a regular bone density test if a woman is 65 years or older. If you are 60 years old and are at an elevated risk of osteoporosis, it is advisable to go for bone density test. However, researches are yet to determine the optimal interval or the appropriate age to stop screening for bone density test.
Bone density test is performed based on your medical history and the recommendation of your doctor. The older you get; the risk of osteoporosis increases, because your bones become weaker. Other risks factors that lead to osteoporosis include personal history or family history of osteoporosis, low body weight and certain medications cause bone loss. Bone density tests are painless and easy. There is virtually no preparation required. Simple bone density tests are also done at local pharmacies. Bone density tests include the lower area of your spine, the neck of the femur bone joining the hip and the wrist or forearm bones.
Bone density tests are done using large machines as well as portable smaller machines. There are peripheral devices to measure the bone density in your wrist, finger or heel. DEXA is the x-ray that measures the density of your bone at your spine or hip. This test gives precise results and is ideal for diagnosing osteoporosis. This test emits radiation and takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete the scanning process. A CT scan can also determine bone density. CT scans emit higher radiation than DEXA scans. This process also takes less than 10 minutes.
All the various forms of density testing of bones have been found to be very effective. The peripheral devices found in pharmacies are less expensive than other central devices. Measurements of your hip or spine are considered to be accurate assessments to calculate the osteoporosis risk, because these fractures limit the quality and also the length of your lifespan. Measurements of bone density done on your finger or heel can be used for screening osteoporosis and this helps in recommending you for hip or spine testing to confirm the diagnosis.
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| by: | Jason Smythe88 |
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