Gransnet forums

Health

Osteoporosis diagnosis

(37 Posts)
Hippy110 Sun 30-Jul-23 00:47:45

Got GP appointment next week following diagnosis of osteoporosis. My T score was -4.5 and Z score -2.9, am just 60 years old. My FRAX was hip 5.6% and major osteoporotic fracture 17.7% but not found much information as to how concerning the FRAX figures might be.
Had an insufficiency fracture in lower back last year but no other broken bones. Was quite tall but have lost 10cm (4") in height which has really only just been noticeable in last 2/3 months. Not been on HRT.

Is it normal to be prescribed HRT alongside bisphosphonates?

Are there any questions I should cover next week? Be very grateful for any help, thanks

dogsmother Mon 31-Jul-23 15:41:11

Fractured and dislocated an ankle 8 years ago, osteopenia but not allowed hrt due to severe migraines.
Weight bearing measures. Lots of walking really. That’s it for me.

Willow68 Mon 31-Jul-23 16:03:43

M0nica, get your Parathyroid checked, not to be confused with the thyroid! Parathyroid takes calcium from skeleton and puts in blood causing high calcium. I had parathyroid removed due to this. It is not normal or ok to have high calcium blood levels.

Milliedog Mon 31-Jul-23 17:31:32

Originally diagnosed around 2003 and took bisphosphonates for a few years but decided that as they hadn't worked for my mum (both coeliacs) they may not work for me and discontinued them. Tried Strontium Ranelate but they were linked with heart problems so gave those up.
Dexa scan in 2018 showed lumbar -3.8
Right total hip -1.3
Left total hip -1.7
The consultant wanted me to have the infusion and I agreed but the appointment letter didn't arrive and after having had extra time to think about it, I decided not to go ahead.

Saetana Mon 31-Jul-23 19:23:00

HRT helps to prevent osteoporosis - not so sure that its much use once you already have osteo.

Redcar Mon 31-Jul-23 20:02:12

I was diagnosed with osteoporosis in 2021 after I paid for a private xray. Had a Dexa scan but no idea what the results were. I take alendronic acid and calcium tablets. My dentist gave me more information about osteoporosis than my gp did. There is masses of information on the Royal Osteoporosis Society website.

M0nica Tue 01-Aug-23 09:00:13

What symptoms of parathyroidism did people have? I have consulted several reliable sites (NHS, Mayo Clinic) and I have none of the symptoms they list.

Marydoll Tue 01-Aug-23 09:41:14

My daughter's FIL is having an urgent op next week to remove a tumour from the gland, which was discovered because of the large amount of kidney stones he had.

annodomini Tue 01-Aug-23 10:21:01

I was due to have a Dexa scan until Covid and lockdown intervened and the appointment disappeared. I have since moved to another district where the GP practice was on 'special measures'' I was also having half-yearly infusions of Zolendronic acid, because I can't take Alendronic acid. Now that the practice has been sorted out, I intend to have myself re-referred.

humptydumpty Tue 01-Aug-23 11:19:04

Have broken both wrists and a hip - not surprisingly my osteopenia had advanced to osteoporosis!

Am on calci-D tablets daily and an injection of denosumab every 6 months.

RedRidingHood Tue 01-Aug-23 21:57:34

I was diagnosed with osteoporosis after a dexa scan in 2021. Massive family history plus I had taken steroids for other conditions.
I have taken vit D and calcium although I gather there is very little evidence that it helps.
Also alendronic acid for 2 years. Recently stopped when I had gastritis and I suspect I may not be able to take it again so may be offered zolendronic acid. I'm torn really. My dentist says these drugs stay in your system for 5 years.
Agree the Royal Osteoporosis society are excellent. Ive watched some very informative videos on their website and spoken to one of their nurses.

Hippy110 Fri 04-Aug-23 11:03:54

Thanks for all the input. GP wants further referral and tests before decide on medications.