Salt Lake City, UT
A 34-year-old female asked:
On hydrocortisone since 2009, only 34 & health insurance is telling me to get checked for osteoporosis. is that correct, how do they test for that?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in

Dr. Steven Sheskieranswered
Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery 40 years experience
Good idea: Prolonged administration of steroid as well as the disease you are being treated for can result in osteopenia. The test that is done is called a "bone density" test.
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Brian Wosnitzeranswered
Nuclear Medicine 19 years experience
Osteoporosis...: Chronic steroid use can lead to osteoporosis. A DXA scan can test for osteoporosis. Dxa is basically a low dose x-ray of certain parts of your body...Usually the lumbar spine, hip, and radius.
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 28, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.