As a teacher, I was always on my feet, and I went to the gym as often as I could, so I didn’t think it was likely. Still, when I next saw my GP, in December 2018, I decided to mention it at the end of my appointment. She asked me questions about my family history and body weight – a small, thin frame apparently increases your risk. We spoke about other factors, including smoking, eating disorders and whether I had taken steroids. Being female and over 50 also increased my risk. At the end of our chat, she said, “Well, I don’t think you’ll qualify for a bone-density scan on the NHS, but I’ll put in for one and see what happens.” I was very surprised when, not long afterwards, I was called for an appointment.
All I can say is thank goodness I was, because it revealed I had osteoporosis, particularly affecting my spine. The scan itself was quick, like an X-ray, so I couldn’t believe it when they told me the results. I was in total shock. I was only 54 years old, but the news made me feel ancient. I was embarrassed and didn’t want to tell anybody. I always thought it was something only old ladies suffered from.
Making changes to reduce my risk
After my GP broke the news, we went straight into discussions about my next steps. Thankfully, I was only just in the osteoporotic range at that point, and as I had been diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolaemia, an inherited form of high cholesterol, they didn’t want to put me on medication.
Instead, the doctor suggested I look at the Royal Osteoporosis Society’s (ROS) website, which I did, and then ring its helpline. The person I spoke to there was fantastic. They calmed me down, then explained more about the condition and the sorts of things I should consider doing with my diet and exercise.
Following their advice, I now walk every day for 30 or 40 minutes. I’ve changed what I do at the gym, too, so as well as some strength training, I’ve taken up Zumba, a Latin-inspired dance fitness class, a couple of times a week. I also do online Pilates with hand weights because weight-bearing exercise slows bone loss and can even help build new bone.