Next week, it's mamogram and bone density time

qualitygal · ‎10-04-2010

From what you know, have heard and read, (gathering info), at what age would you no longer get either done? I am doing this for an update, since I slacked off on getting this done for awhile and want my medical current. There's always so many articles and point of views on this, I just don't know what's right anymore. If my doctor said, do it!, there would be no question, to just do it. The Fosomax made me deathly ill, and I'll never take that again. At this age I don't see that bone density matters any more. I'll be leary should they suggest any med's for that.

So, if you have any helpful info, please add in. Thanks.

Came back to add in 5 mos. I'll be 69.

Fona · ‎11-16-2011

QualityGal: I am sorry I don't have any helpful information for you but I would encourage you to keep up with these tests (and don't wait for your doctor to remind you). I can only tell you how I feel for myself. Quite often we hear that seniors don't need certain tests after a certain age, but I have a mammogram every year anyway. I do this just for myself and my peace of mind and I am sure I will continue to do this. I had a bone density test about four years ago and since then I have taken a calcium pill every day and also watched out for my calcium intake. I don't know your circumstances or if you have any underlying problems, but today we all have to look out for ourselves and do the best we can so I have no problem going ahead with yearly exams, blood tests, etc. Good luck with your tests and I hope everything turns out well.

CalminHeart · ‎03-09-2010

I think it's important to have a bone density baseline to monitor as women age. It's sometimes the first way to identify loss of bone/density which leads to all kinds of issues for women as they age. However, I don't think they need to be done every 5 years as my gyno recommends. I've had 2 and am glad...both showed I had bones of a 20 something. I will probably wait 3 more years, until age 65, to have another.

PinkyPetunia · ‎03-09-2010

@qualitygal It depends on your age and you didn't say how old you were. Ask your doctor how often you should have these tests.

I am 62 and I went for a mamography yesterday. I go every year.

I've been having the bone density done every 2 years but I also question why since I don't think the meds are safe. My gyno doesn't suggest calcium supplements since they may not be absorbed and may contribute to deposits in arteries and elsewhere. Best to get calcium from a healthy diet.

esmeraldagooch · ‎03-10-2010

@qualitygal wrote:
From what you know, have heard and read, (gathering info), at what age would you no longer get either done? I am doing this for an update, since I slacked off on getting this done for awhile and want my medical current. There's always so many articles and point of views on this, I just don't know what's right anymore. If my doctor said, do it!, there would be no question, to just do it. The Fosomax made me deathly ill, and I'll never take that again. At this age I don't see that bone density matters any more. I'll be leary should they suggest any med's for that.

So, if you have any helpful info, please add in. Thanks.

My Dr says those bone drugs kill your bones. I am adding Vitamin D-3 with magnesum/calcium and K-2 MK-7 which directs the calcium to the bones and teeth not other places in your body. I am also using zucchini in my smoothies since its a great chelated calcium easily absorbed into your system and rebillds bones rapidly.

K-2 MK-7 is a natural occuring natto and lasts 3 days in the body. Since I've been taking it I have noticed my teeth are cleaner in the morning. http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/06/28/vitamin-k2-health-benefits.aspx

athenian · ‎03-18-2012

My bone density is good, so my doctor says every 5 years. I'm 67.

My grandmother had breast cancer at 74, had successful treatment and lived to be 95. You can bet I'll keep having mammograms every year (unless they come up with a better test).

qualitygal · ‎10-04-2010

@PinkyPetunia, 69 for me in 5 mos.

Shelbelle · ‎03-09-2010

I know a very well respected breast cancer surgeon in my area, and she says no more mamms after 85, I am not so sure this is always good advice.

Catty2 · ‎09-06-2014

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 76 so I wouln'd ever stop getting a yearly mammogram. Just had mine last week, I'm 67 years old. Not sure about the bone density. It's been a few years since my dr. has brought that up.