DEXA Scan (Bone Density Testing) for Osteoporosis

Sun City Center, Florida - - (January 18, 2010) - - Osteoporosis is a potentially crippling bone disease characterized by low bone mass (density) and the deterioration of bone tissue. It is often called the silent disease, because bone loss can occur for many years without any signs or symptoms of the disease until a bone fractures. That is why early detection of bone loss is so important.

A DEXA Bone Density Scan is a quick and painless screening test that can measure your bone density, and help your physician determine if you suffer from Osteoporosis. The scan is as simple as lying flat on an exam table. The bone density of your hip and spine are measured using low dose x-rays. The entire test takes approximately 15 minutes. A prescription is required for a DEXA Bone Density Scan, so talk to your doctor to see if it is right for you. 

There are many risk factors that may increase your chance of developing Osteoporosis. Some risk factors, such as age, asthma, and liver disease cannot be changed. However, there are also risk factors that you can control, such as smoking, alcohol abuse, and inactive lifestyle. Talk to your doctor for more information on your personal risk and what you can do to lower that risk.

DEXA Bone Density Scanning is available at South Bay Hospital’s Outpatient Diagnostic Center. A prescription is required for the scan, so talk to your doctor to see if you are at risk for Osteoporosis and if you should be prescribed a DEXA Bone Density Scan. To schedule your DEXA Scan, talk to your doctor and then call (813) 642-8468.