Dexa scan

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Hello,  I'm 60 and post menopausal. I had lumpectomy and radiotherapy last year. I started letrozole August, my joints  the last couple of months have started feeling stiff and painful. The cracking sounds coming from all over my body are increasing  especially in my back. My dexa scan showed I have osteoporosis and am on a weekly alendonic acid tablet. Should I be worried I wasn't offered bone infusions. Many thanks 

  • Hi  , I’d say query anything you’re not sure about.

    I can only comment from my own case, which I think may be similar to yours but obviously I don’t know details. You can see mine on my profile by clicking on my username.
    For me, I was diagnosed at 59, in 2018, had lumpectomy, radiotherapy and am on Anastrozole. My dexa scan showed osteopenia (pre curser to osteoporosis). My oncologist gave me the results at a post rads follow up and said it would be up to my GP to decide if I needed bisphosphonates (which I assume would have been a daily or weekly tablet). GP said not necessary, but would have prescribed calcium and vitamin D if I wasn’t already taking it (I’ve stuck to my own brand). My dexa scans over the years have shown some deterioration but apparently not enough to merit bisphosphonates. I’m due my 4th scan (every 2 years) soon so will be interesting to see where I’m at. I still take daily calcium and vitamin D. 
    I don’t know about you, but I had annual mammograms and a face to face consultation in the years following my op. That’s when I would probably have asked your question. But I think different areas have different protocols. I saw a breast surgeon, not an oncologist, but he would check with oncologist if necessary. You could also query it with your GP? It’s horrible not being sure if you’re on the appropriate treatment, and of course while cases can be similar, each is unique. And if you’re worried about the aches and pains and the bone cracking sounds (I have joint pains which I assume are due to the Anastrozole but no sound effects), then of course get them checked out. I have gone back to the breast clinic a few times over the years, thankfully turned out to be all ok, but was always told to get stuff checked if concerned. Love and hugs, HFxx

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • Thank you. I had my first mammogram 2nd May and am anxiously awaiting the result, also I've had numbness at the top of my leg which I've been referred to msk clinic for a mri. I've been losing my balance for over 9 months now and has over the last few months caused stumbling which is scary. My husband walks next to the road when our walking in case I stumble into the road. I can't carry our new grandson and only can hold him sitting down.  I was referred to the balance clinic but still awaiting appointment. So sorry to ramble on and complain.

  • Gosh you’re not complaining or rambling, you’ve got a lot going on and none of it pleasant! Hope your appointment with the balance clinic comes through soon, is it worth chasing up? The numbness also sounds scary, hopefully the MRI will shed some light on a possible cause. Xx

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • Thank you so much. I will give them a call Monday to chase appointment. It's just a never ending battle in your mind. I'm still scared to even have one glass of wine or one gin and tonic even though, bcn, oncologist, doctor have all said alcohol in moderation. Just to be able to celebrate a special occasion with a glass of prosecco. I find myself looking at ladies enjoying a glass of wine and wish I could enjoy just one glass and be able to enjoy it without guilt or worry. I hope that time will come. Thank you so much for your support. Today is feeling like one of those days that it just gets on top of you.