So I went to the gyno today for my annual, and as part of it I had to get a bone density scan last week because I’ve been on the depo shot for the last 3 years. I love it, and it has worked really well for me….however one of the side effects it has is on bone density (hence the scan) and my results showed that I was borderline osteopenic. So I’m a little stressed about it. The ra already puts me at an increased risk for osteoporosis, and I’ve been lactose intolerant sense I was born (I’ve never drank a full glass of milk, and was on soy milk until I was about 4). I take a ca supplement everyday but now I’m in a little bit of a predicament.
My gyn doc would typically put me on osteoporosis meds but she is really concerned because of the possible interactions with my ra meds, she faxing the report to my ra doc (I have an appt with her next week anyhow). She doesn’t want to take me off the depo shot because its working so well, another option is a iud insert, but it is placed under my breast by my arm pit. My issue with that is my aunt had breast cancer about 5 years ago and the insert is in the place where most cancer happens to be.
I’m sorry this is so long but I just feel like this is just another thing that’s been thrown on my plate, just as I’ve finally gotten use to the idea of having ra. So a few questions to you all…how many of you have bone density issues (related to ra or other things)? And if any what meds are you on? Also does anyone have any advise you could give me on what I should do about this situation (besides taking the advise of my drs) and how I should handle yet another thing.
kristen, thanks for the responce...i know i shouldn't stress as much about it but gosh i just feel like i dont need/can't handle anything else right now.
because of the lactose intolerance i do take ca+vit d once daily and i was also told a while back about the resistance exercises (however swimming is not one.) Besides exercises and a multi vit did your doctor put you on any meds (ones that increase bone density or anything related)? i'm sorry your dealing with this as well. thanks again for the responce!
Hi Kristen, I am on Actonel - one 35mg tablet once a week and 1250mg of calcium daily except on day of actonel. I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis in my hands and feet and my spine is osteopaenic, all I know is I had to actually have a fracture before the govt would subsidise the drug, I had two fractures one in each of my fourth metatarsals, and they are taking forever to heal 8+ months. Best of luck, I hope you don't need a fracture before they give you some assistance.