Osteoporosis: Should You Be Tested?
(continued)
We hear a lot about "risk factors" for osteoporosis. To find out if you are
"at risk", take Dr. Donnica's Decisionnaire™ for Osteoporosis.
Check off as many of the following risk factors that apply to you. The more
checks you have, the greater your risk of osteoporosis. Bringing this completed
quiz with you to your next doctor's appointment may help you discuss osteoporosis.
If you have checked 2 or more boxes on this checklist, show it to your doctor
and say that you want to know if s/he thinks you are at risk for osteoporosis.
__ I am female
__ I am Caucasian or Asian
__ I have reached menopause
__ I had an early menopause (natural or surgical)
__ I have small bones or I am very thin (or I have/have had anorexia)
__ I breastfed infants exclusively for a total of 6 months or more
__ I lead an inactive lifestyle (less than 3 half hour session of exercise per
week)
__ I am shorter than I used to be
__ I have had a low dietary calcium intake and I do not take calcium supplements
__ I have had an excessive caffeine or alcohol intake
__ My mother or other women in my family had osteoporosis (or had unexplained
fractures or stooped posture)
__ I am shorter than I used to be
__ My shoulders are hunched over
__ My back is in constant pain
__ I recently broke a bone
__ I smoke
__ I take (or previously took for an extended period of time): prednisone or other
steroids, water pills, ulcer medications, blood thinners, seizure medications,
thyroid medication
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 Whatever your choice of therapy, remember that you’re not committed to that choice for life! You and your physician will monitor your progress and your comfort level with your treatment plan. If there are factors that change—including your level of satisfaction—discuss this with your physician.
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