What to do to prepare for a bone density test (DEXA Scan)?
Introduction
Any visit to the doctor can be a nerve wracking experience. It’s important to know what to expect and how to prepare. A bone density test or DEXA scan is a medical test that uses X-rays to measure the density of your bones (duh). This helps doctors determine if you have osteoporosis and other bone diseases.
What is a Bone Density Test?
DEXA stands for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. It uses, you guessed it, two x-ray beams with different energy levels aimed at your bones. Bones and soft tissue react to x-rays differently, so using two beams allows you to compare how much of the x-ray beam as absorbed by your bones, and how much was absorbed by your soft tissue. Then all you have to do is subtract! Conveniently, DEXA scans are also occasionally used for figuring out your body composition and body fat percentage. Like any x-ray test, there is some radiation involved, however the amount is very small. The scan itself takes anywhere from 10-15 minutes.
Why do I need a Bone Density Test?
Doctors use bone density tests mainly to check if you have osteoporosis. They may suspect osteoporosis if you’ve lost height recently, which is due to fractures in the spine, or if you’ve fractured a bone unexpectedly. Women should be scanned at age 65, and men age 70. There are also certain medications that can effect bone repair, and doctors may order a DEXA scan to monitor the effects that these drugs are having on your bones.
How do I Prepare for a Bone Density Test?
DEXA scans are very simple procedures, you don’t need many special preparations. The only thing you should do is quit taking calcium supplements at least 24 hours before your scan, as this calcium can skew your bone density results. General comfort recommendations still apply: make sure you get enough rest the night before, wear comfortable clothes, and drink enough water.
Can I Drink Coffee Before my Bone Density Test?
Since a DEXA scan is measuring the density of your bones and soft tissue, coffee will not have any effect on your scan. Water, coffee, tea, go wild.
Conclusion
However stressful and inconvenient doctor’s visits can be, DEXA scans are one of the more simple procedures. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes, and don’t take your calcium supplement, and you’ll be just fine!
