Over the past 20 years we have provided an osteoporosis screening DXA Scan service.Our doctors are experts in Osteoporosis diagnosis and management and we are an internationally certified centre.
Appointments in adherence with strict safe covid procedures (30 minutes) can be arranged from 9-5 pm Monday to Friday .We can facilitate a medical letter if required during lock down via text/email. We can always offer an appointment within 2-3 days.You are asked to attend 10 minutes prior to your appointment to register your details and to complete an Osteoporosis Questionnaire. |
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Why have a DXA Scan?
- DXA scan can easily diagnose osteoporosis and is recommended for all women at 65 years and all men at 70 years.
- Patients with risk factors for osteoporosis ( see below) often warrant DXA scan much earlier.
What happens during the DXA Scan?
- The DXA Scan is carried out by our practice nurse and takes 30 minutes.
- The patient is required to lie on their back for the first part and on their left side for the remainder of the scan.
- We do our utmost to ensure that the patient is comfortable throughout.
- Loose clothing is advised as thickened bands, undergarments, wiring may affect readings.
- Minimal radiation is involved.
- Your full lateral spine , lumbar spine and both hips are scanned.
- The scan results are reported within 48 hours by our experienced doctors.
- A report is sent to your doctor.
- Patients may request a copy of the report which may be emailed directly.
What is Osteoporosis?
- Literally meaning ‘porous bones’, is a chronic, progressive disease in which bones become fragile and are more likely to break.
- Osteoporosis usually affects the whole skeleton but it most commonly causes breaks (fractures) to the bone in the wrist, spine and hip.
- If left undiagnosed and untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a fracture occurs due to a simple strain, a bump or a fall.
- Fractures can not only lead to chronic ill health for the remainder of one’s life but also increase mortality.
- Modern medication can reverse and cure osteoporosis.
- Osteoporosis is a silent illness that can easily be diagnosed by a Bone Scan.
Osteoporosis occurs gradually as we get older.
However, it may occur at a much younger age and can be associated with the following:
- Amenorrhoea – absent periods (annorexia/low body weight)
- Chronic illness – e.g.Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohns Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Respiratory Illness, Coeliac Disease.
- Medication – Thyroid treatment or Steroids (Cortisone)
- Early Menopause
- Family History of Osteoporosis
- Smoking
Cost:
DXA Bone Scan €100.
Book a Bone Scan:
You can book an appointment by contacting our team at: 091 553135 or info@spiddalgp.ie.
Complete the DXA Questionnaire.