The purpose of a bone density test is to alert your doctor if there is decreased bone mass, which can lead to falls, broken bones, and fractures due to brittle bones. There are multiple ways to determine this mineral content in our bones, but the DEXA-CT scan is considered the gold standard. Understanding your T-scores and Z-scores is crucial, as they provide valuable insights into your bone density, which can significantly impact your quality of life, especially as you age.
What Is Osteoporosis and How Is It Diagnosed?
Osteoporosis is a common condition that causes a reduction in bone strength that can lead to brittle bones. Ten million Americans have osteoporosis and it causes millions of dollars in medical bills, especially for women.
In fact, 50% of women over age 50 will break a bone due to this condition. It can be prevented and treated.
Bone density tests can diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia which is a lowered bone density that has not yet reached osteoporosis. Finding out if you have either of these conditions can save older patients lost time from work, daily activities and the cost of treatment.
Who Should Get Bone Density Screening?
You should consider getting a bone density test if you:
- Are postmenopausal (women under 65 may need screening if they have risk factors)
- Are age 65 or older (both men and women)
- Have a family history of osteoporosis or bone fractures
- Are a smoker or have a history of alcohol use
- Have been on long-term corticosteroid therapy or other medications that affect bone density
- Have conditions that affect bone health, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or hypothyroidism
- Have experienced a previous bone fracture from minimal trauma
Discuss with your healthcare provider if you fall into any of these categories to determine if a bone density test is right for you. Early detection can help prevent fractures and reduce the overall impact of osteoporosis on your quality of life.
How to Interpret Bone Density Test Results
A bone density test is painless and non-invasive. A bone density scan result will not only tell whether you have osteoporosis, or osteopenia, but will estimate your risk of falls and breaking a bone in the future.
What Are T-Scores?
Postmenopausal women and men over the age of 50 will receive a diagnostic T-score.
- A T-score of -1.0 or higher suggests regular bone density.
- A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 suggests you have low bone density like osteopenia.
- A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates you have osteoporosis.
If your doctor diagnoses osteoporosis you may begin treatment. The test can be repeated to follow up and monitor the treatment progress.
What Are Z-Scores?
This score determines the standard deviation above or below what is expected for your age, sex, weight, and ethnic origin. If the Z score is significantly higher or lower than normal, you may need additional tests to discover the problem.
The results of the bone density scan can give your healthcare team a better picture of the strength of your bones and whether you are likely to fall and break a bone in the future. These results can indicate whether you need medication to improve your bone strength, and it will be able to monitor if medication is helping.
Bone Density Screening in Reston and Leesburg, VA
All About Women offers comprehensive bone density screenings to assess your bone health.
Call (703) 437-0001 to schedule an appointment today and take a proactive step toward maintaining strong bones.
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