It used to be believed that osteoporosis was a natural part of aging, but that is not the case. Osteoporosis is a bone diseases that happens when the body loses too much bone, doesn’t make enough bone, or both.  At this point you are much more susceptible to broken bones from falls, bumps, or something as little as sneezing.  May is National Osteoporosis Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to get informed and get a DEXA bone density scan to test the health of your bones. Once you know the facts (and your results), you can take action; whether it be to keep on the path of prevention, or to strengthen your bones.

 Who should get tested?

Bone Density tests are generally recommended for men 70 years or older, women 65 years or older, as well as younger women who have a higher risk of fracture. Your doctor may also recommend you get tested if you have lost a significant amount of height (around 4 cm or more), recently fractured a bone, take certain bone thinning medications (ex. Steroids like Prednisone, or anti-rejection medications for transplant recipients), or have had a recent decrease in hormone levels (menopause, or some cancer treatments).

 What to expect?

This is the best part: DEXA Bone Density Scans are fast, easy, and pain free!   When you go in for your exam you will lie on a padded table while a motorized scanner crosses over your body, sending two types of X-ray beams through your bones. It takes 10-20 minutes and all you have to do is hold still. You will only be exposed to a minimal amount of radiation; less impact than a cross-country flight.

 Will my insurance cover it?

Medicare covers bone density testing every 2 years if you are 65 years or older and:

• Have low estrogen and are at risk for osteoporosis
• Are taking (or will be taking) steroid medications
• Have hyperparathyroidism
• Have X-rays that show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia or spine fractures
• Are being monitored to see if osteoporosis medications are working

Most other insurances companies will cover a DEXA Bone Density Scan if you have been through menopause, are not taking estrogen during menopause, have a fracture, or are on bone thinning medications.  Call your insurance company directly and ask for details regarding your DEXA Bone Density Scan coverage.

 Prevention

Whether you are at risk or not, it is always a good idea to help your bones stay strong or get stronger. A few tips to keep in mind are:

• Make sure you get plenty of Calcium and Vitamin D
• Exercise regularly to keep your bones strong
• Make sure your diet includes a variety of dairy, fish, fruits and vegetables
• Avoid or quit smoking
• Limit your alcohol intake

 Schedule Today

Minneapolis Radiology has staff that are expertly trained to perform Bone Density testing while keeping you at ease. We offer DEXA at our Crystal, Plymouth and Maple Grove locations. Call to schedule your appointment today at 763-398-4400.

Question:
Does my insurance cover my mammogram?

Answer:
In nearly every case, yes!

If you’re like most women, you’re concerned about your risk for developing breast cancer, and you know that there’s nothing better than a regular mammogram for early detection.

But what you might not know is that most insurance companies consider mammograms a medically necessary preventive service. What does that mean? It means that your annual mammogram should be covered by your insurance—and completely free to you—even if you haven’t met your yearly deductible.

So what are the guidelines?

• Most insurance companies (as well as Medicare) cover annual mammograms for women over 40
• Many companies cover mammograms for women over 30 years who are considered “high risk”, which can mean a personal or family history of breast cancer, BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, or other health issues

Of course, there are always exceptions, and it’s likely that you’ll need to see a provider who’s in-network with your plan. Make sure to talk to your insurance company about the specifics of your policy.

Schedule a mammogram

Schedule your mammogram today at the Breast Center of Maple Grove. Our center offers a relaxing and comfortable environment, state-of-the-art technology, and appointments that fit within your busy schedule. Please contact us at 763-398-6370.

Breast pain is a common symptom that affects many women.

For some women, the pain is related to menstruation and can appear at certain times of the month, usually a few days before their cycle. In others, the pain appears more randomly. Breast pain is most common in younger women who have not yet gone through menopause.

The good news is that while breast pain can be alarming (and uncomfortable), it’s usually not an indicator of breast cancer.

However, if you experience ongoing pain or if your pain seems to be getting worse, it’s a good idea to see your doctor for a breast exam. If necessary, he or she may recommend a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy in order to investigate and rule out any problems.

In most cases, breast pain resolves itself. If it continues, your doctor may make adjustments to any hormonal birth control you may be taking, or recommend over-the-counter pain medications like aspirin or ibuprofen.

Schedule a beast exam today

 At the Breast Center of Maple Grove, it’s easy to schedule your exam at our comfortable, state of the art facility. Same day appointments are available, and walk-ins are welcome! Give us a call at 763-398-6370.

Source: Mayoclinic.com