Tips to Prepare for Osteoporosis Treatment

If you have decided to seek help for osteoporosis, speaking with a doctor is the first step. Your conversation with them may have a significant impact on the quality of your interactions. Before contacting Jeffrey Miller, MD for help, keep the following preparation tips in mind:

1.      Disclose Your Medical History

Let your doctor know about your family's medical history before getting treatment. Let them know about your medical history as well. If you were diagnosed with liver disease, lung problems, or kidney problems, your doctor needs to know about it. 

2.      Let Them Know About Your Medication

If you are under any medication, your doctor must know about it before treatment. Present them with a list of all your drugs and find out if they are safe. This includes herbal drugs, supplements, and over-the-counter medication. Some drugs may cause bone loss. 

3.      Lifestyle Changes

Before getting your osteoporosis treatment, you must be willing to make certain changes to your lifestyle. Your doctor may suggest that you avoid certain foods and exercise regularly. You may need to quit smoking and drinking alcohol. 

4.      Diet Changes

Dietary changes may help you manage osteoporosis. Increase your intake of calcium and Vitamin D as you wait to get treatment. Calcium promotes the development of new bones, and Vitamin D promotes the absorption of Calcium into the body. Do not start taking supplements before getting the opinion of your doctor. Excessive Calcium may be bad for your body. 

5.      Asking the Right Questions

Asking the right questions could improve the quality of your osteoporosis treatment. Some essential questions to ask include:

• Do the medications I take increase my risk for the disease?
• Do I need an x-ray if I have pain that started suddenly?
• What should I do if I have a smoking problem?
• What are the most important things I should know about osteoporosis?
• What are the most appropriate treatment options for my needs?

6.      Get a Second Opinion

Even when you trust your doctor, getting a second opinion is always a good idea. It helps you make sure that you are getting the best treatment. Provide the second medical provider with your medical records and give them at least two weeks to process your request. 

7.      Bone Density Test

A bone density test is one of the best ways to determine how much bone you have lost. The test is painless and works great. After determining how much bone you have lost, your doctor will prescribe appropriate medication.

Questions that Your Doctor May Ask

• How often do you drink or smoke?
• What foods do you eat often?
• Do you have a history of osteoporosis in your family?
• How long have you had neck pain?
• Have you fallen recently?
• Do you exercise regularly?

 Even though osteoporosis can affect anyone, its risk factors include gender, age, smoking, and body weight. If you suspect that you may have it, you should try to get help fast. If medication is not an option, you may need surgery.