How to Prepare for a Bone Density Test

The Bone Density Solution by Shelly ManningThe program is all about healthy food and healthy habits. As we discussed earlier, we develop osteoporosis due to low bone density. Therefore, you will have to choose the right food to help your calcium and other vitamin deficiencies. In addition to healthy food, you will have to regularly practice some mild exercises. Your doctor might offer you the same suggestion. However, the difference is that The Bone Density Solution will help you with an in-depth guide.

A bone density test, also known as a DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan, is a non-invasive procedure that measures bone mineral density (BMD) and helps diagnose conditions like osteoporosis. Proper preparation can help ensure the accuracy of the results. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for a bone density test:

1. Inform Your Healthcare Provider

Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with a complete medical history, including any conditions you have, medications you take, and previous fractures or surgeries.
Pregnancy: Inform your provider if you are or might be pregnant. While the radiation exposure during a DEXA scan is minimal, precautions are taken to avoid unnecessary exposure during pregnancy.
Recent Tests: Let your provider know if you have had any recent tests or procedures that involved contrast material (such as a barium X-ray or CT scan with contrast) within the last two weeks. The contrast material can interfere with the bone density test results.

2. Avoid Calcium Supplements

Calcium Intake: Avoid taking calcium supplements for at least 24 hours before your test. Calcium in the bloodstream can affect the accuracy of the bone density measurements.
Other Medications: Unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider, continue taking your other medications as usual.

3. Dress Comfortably

Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or belts. Metal objects can interfere with the scan, so you may be asked to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, or metal accessories before the test.
Avoid Underwire Bras: If you wear a bra, choose one without an underwire, as the metal can affect the scan.

4. Eating and Drinking

No Fasting Required: You can eat and drink normally before your test. There is no need to fast.
Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, but avoid consuming excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol on the day of the test, as these can affect bone density.

5. What to Bring

Referral or Prescription: Bring any referral or prescription from your healthcare provider that you were given for the test.
Previous Test Results: If you have had a bone density test before, bring the results with you. This can help in comparing current bone density levels with previous readings.

6. Arrive on Time

Appointment Time: Plan to arrive a few minutes early for your appointment to complete any necessary paperwork and to ensure the test starts on time.

7. Relax Before the Test

Relaxation: Try to relax before the test. Stress can sometimes affect blood pressure and other physiological factors, which might indirectly influence the test results.

During the Test

Procedure: The DEXA scan is quick, non-invasive, and painless. You will lie on your back on a padded table, and the scanner will pass over your body to measure bone density, typically at the spine, hip, and sometimes the forearm.
Stillness: It’s important to stay as still as possible during the scan to ensure clear and accurate images.

After the Test

Resume Normal Activities: You can resume your normal activities immediately after the test. There are no restrictions following a bone density test.
Results: The results are usually available within a few days and will be reviewed by your healthcare provider, who will discuss them with you and recommend any necessary follow-up or treatment.

Conclusion

Preparing for a bone density test is straightforward but important for obtaining accurate results. By following these guidelines—such as avoiding calcium supplements, wearing the right clothing, and informing your healthcare provider of relevant medical history—you can ensure that the test proceeds smoothly and yields reliable information about your bone health.