Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 67-year-old postmenopausal woman recently diagnosed with osteoporosis after a DEXA scan showed a T-score of -2.8 in my spine and -2.6 in my hip. I also had a low-impact wrist fracture last year. I take Calcium and vitamin D supplements, but I am worried about whether that is enough. My doctor mentioned bisphosphonates or injections like Denosumab, but I am scared of side effects like jaw problems or atypical fractures.
How do I know which treatment is best for me?
Are lifestyle changes like yoga or weight training really helpful at my age?
Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
I am glad you have had your dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans done. It is good that you are on Calcium and vitamin D supplements. But yes, you will require further medication to address osteoporosis and prevent further damage. You need not be concerned about side effects causing jaw problems. Yes, yoga is definitely helpful, but not extreme poses. I will be explaining in detail about the condition and its treatment.
The probable causes include estrogen deficiency, endocrine causes, Vitamin D and calcium deficiency, malabsorption, and renal pathology. Investigations to be done include
Bone mineral density (BMD).
Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Vitamin D.
Fracture risk assessment tool (Frax) score.
The following conditions need to be ruled out:
Osteomalacia, multiple myeloma, rheumatoid arthritis, and endocrine disorders.
The probable diagnosis is osteoporosis. I would suggest the following treatment plan:
Continue Vitamin D and Calcium supplements
Bisphosphonates – Alendronate (weekly oral), Zoledronic acid (yearly once intravenous infusion).
Denosumab injection every six months.
Teriparatide injection daily for one year.
Risedronate (weekly or monthly).
Zoledronic acid (yearly intravenous).
Preventive measures include fracture and fall prevention and avoiding exertional activities. Regarding follow-up, a renal check-up, bone mineral density (BMD), dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) test are required.
I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Kishore H
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
Minodronic Acid: Dosage, Efficiency, Side-Effects, Indications, and Warnings
Osteoporosis and Cardiovascular Diseases - Understanding the Correlation
Osteoporosis and Its Impact on Spinal Health
How are bisphosphonates, osteopenia, and esophagus linked?
Is the pain in my scrotum due to my wife denying sex?
What are the ways to treat recurring UTI?
Ask your health query to a doctor online
*guaranteed answer within 4 hours
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.