Diagnosis
To find out if you have osteoporosis, there are several tests, which can be done to measure bone density. These include:
- DXA scan (dual X-ray absorptiometry)
- QCT (Ultrasound and quantitative computed tomography)
- Blood tests
- Bone densitometry
Treatments
Although there is no cure for osteoporosis, there are a number of treatments and medications available that can assist those living with the disease. However, getting the right osteoporosis medication will depend on a number of factors, including:
- Age – certain medications are more appropriate for postmenopausal women.
- Sex – some medications are specifically – and only approved – for women.
- How far along the osteoporosis disease is – health practitioners should take into consideration other health elements (such as breast cancer, blood clots, radiation treatment, etc.) before recommending the right osteoporosis medication.
- Personal preferences – medications are available as pills, liquids or IV medicines and preference of this will vary from person to person.