Osteoporosis Test
If you think that you may have osteoporosis, then you should speak to your doctor about osteoporosis testing. Certain people are pre-disposed to having this condition, although everyone should take advantage of the osteoporosis testing methods that are currently available. These osteoporosis testing methods include a bone density test that can be done through a blood test right in the office of a physician.
Bone Density
Bone density is comprised of both hereditary factors as well as lifestyle factors. Bone density testing is the test that is usually the first step in osteoporosis testing. Most of the bone density comes from heredity factors. Those who have a first degree relative who suffers from osteoporosis are more inclined to get this condition themselves and should start to get osteoporosis testing by asking their physician for bone density testing when they reach the age of 65, but sooner if they have risk factors for the condition or if they have another condition that can be a precursor for this disease.
Osteoporosis testing includes the following types of tests:
Blood and urine tests
DEXA Scan
Bone Mineral Density Tests
All of the above osteoporosis testing is done to determine bone density and to diagnose the condition of osteoporosis. Depending upon the results, a doctor may or may not order all of the tests before they make the diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Bone density determines your bone mass. By the time a person reaches the age of 30, they are considered to be at their peak when it comes to bone density. As the body ages, the bone density begins to change. This is due to a number of factors, including hormonal factors that can affect the levels of Vitamin D in the blood that contribute to the loss of calcium. The first step in osteoporosis testing is usually done through blood tests that will reveal alkaline phosphates levels, called Bone ALP. This blood test will measure the following:
Bone ALP markers
Osteocalcin levels that contribute to bone formation
Urine testing for Type I Collagen that determines any loss of bone’
Vitamin D levels in the body
After this step, a doctor may require other tests for osteoporosis. These include the following tests:
DEXA Scan – This is a common test that measures bone density in the spine, hip or other bones. The DEXA scan is one of the most commonly used of the osteoporosis testing methods and can determine the absorption of the bone density in the body.
Bone Density Mineral Tests – Bone density tests are also done by other methods that include an ultrasound that can measure bone density as well as bone density scores. These osteoporosis testing methods are usually ordered when markers in the blood indicate a loss of bone density. Once a doctor has performed bone density tests for osteoporosis testing, they can then make an accurate diagnose of the disease based upon their findings as well as the bone density test results.
Bone Density Test Results
After a doctor has completed osteoporosis testing, they will have a better understanding of bone density test results. Test results for bone density vary from person to person and are usually determined by markers as well as the results from DEXA scans and blood test markers. Not everyone who has osteoporosis has the same results when it comes to their osteoporosis testing. Some may have a more advanced case of osteoporosis while others may have a milder case of the disease. When it comes to treatment options, a doctor will need to know the results of tests for bone density as well as continue to monitor the blood test markers.
Blood Test Markers For Bone Density Test Results
If you are getting osteoporosis testing and the blood density testing reveals high levels of Bone ALP, your doctor will need to keep track of your condition by taking periodic tests to determine your bone density results. This will include osteoporosis testing that will determine the following:
Bond formation levels
Osteocalicin
Bone loss levels
Vitamin D levels
Enzymes
Proteins
These will all determine your bone density test results and will be tested regularly when you have osteoporosis. The purpose of osteoporosis testing is not only to determine whether or not you have the condition, but also to help with treatment.
Your doctor will want to keep track of your bone density test results on a regular basis to make sure that the treatment they are prescribing is working correctly for you. Those who have the condition of osteoporosis can help themselves by getting regular osteoporosis testing as well as making sure that their doctor is well aware of their bone density test levels. Tests for bone density are usually performed in the office of the doctor, including the DEXA scan as well as ultrasound. Most doctors who treat osteoporosis will have access to the osteoporosis testing equipment that is used to measure bone density in their office.
Who Should Get Osteoporosis Testing
Any woman who is age 65 or older should get osteoporosis testing as this is a condition that primarily affects older women. Women who have a first degree relative or have conditions that make them a candidate for osteoporosis should get tested earlier, usually at the recommendation of their physician. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms of osteoporosis can get a bone density test to determine their Bone ALP markers and learn their bone density levels.
Osteoporosis testing is not painful and can usually be performed right in the office of a physician. It consists of several bone density testing methods that will yield bone density results. It is important for anyone who is concerned about osteoporosis to get proper testing for this condition, learn about the bone density test results and also keep on top of their condition with their physician with regard to treatment options. Osteoporosis does not have to be a crippling condition and can even be reversed in some cases as long as proper osteoporosis testing is done, bone density is monitored and a proper treatment plan that may require medications, diet and exercise, is followed.