Has anyone seen an Endocrinologist for osteoporosis?

I was seeing an endocrinologist - suggested by my GP - for osteoporosis. She recommended Reclast, as I had reactions to all other (oral) meds prescribed by my GP. However, after the 1st infusion, I had a severe reaction approximately 12 - 14 hours after the infusion. High fever, chills, sweating, nausea (dry heaves), dizziness, and severe headache. I reported this - She said my reaction was highly unusual. I felt so awful, I refused future infusions. Honestly felt as if I had been poisoned. Now I am working on dietary changes - following a low lectin diet - and significant increase in weight workouts. Slight improvement in my bone density after my last exam. Next one this summer. I will say that I had 2 bicycle 'cradhes'. Both times fell on my femoral neck (huge bruising/hematoma), but no fractures. My dexa score is lowest in this area. So I belive my 'bone strength' might be much better than my bone 'density'. I hope your endocrinologist recommends working on gut bacteria remediation. Much of what I read indicates a possible absorption issue when the 'diet' is nutritionally sound.

@fsf

The majority of osteoporosis is caused by loss of hormones during and after menopause. It is important to rule out secondary causes.

@gravity3 yes - extensive testing prior to meds and infusion. Initially, doctor thought Ca, Mg, D3 deficiency. But all levels were correct. Have always had an issue with hormones (serious athlete - loss of mensis). However, family history indicated that hormone replacement was not an option.

ENDOs generally prescribe the usual meds…I recall asking an internist at a major medical center if their OP center would offer alternatives, like integrative medicine and she replied that they do not, even though their web info says they do…i was taken aback, very frustrating…best one can do is to do your research…(.maybe call some ENDOs and ask them specifically ?)

I have been seeing an endocrinologist who specializes in metabolic bone diseases like osteoporosis for nine months. Prior to this, my osteoporosis was managed ( not very well) by my PCP.

My endocrinologist ran multiple tests to identify factors that might have been contributing to my osteoporosis. She also discussed lifestyle factors that increase or mitigate the risk of osteoporosis and fractures with me.

This was helpful to me because I was assured that everything that could be investigated and ruled out was done. In my case, nothing obvious was found other than age and possibly a genetic disposition to osteoporosis.

Because I had fractured while on alendronate, I am at high risk for another fracture. She was able to get me approved for treatment with Evenity and I have been on it for nine months.

I trust her because she is factual and uses evidence-based treatment as does my gynecologist who first sent me for a DEXA scan at age 53 and who started me on bHRT. Both of these specialists have helped me feel stronger and more confident which reduces my fear of this disease.

My dad’s outcome was not good and I feel like I am doing everything I can to avoid the same because of the excellent care I am getting.

It’s worth discussing your situation with an endocrinologist - many never get that opportunity because of where they live or other factors like lacking good medical care.

It’s another viewpoint that gives you all the information you require to make an informed decision about your future.

I have found endocrinology helpful with managing my OP. Through testing, it was discovered that I have hypercalciuria (excretion of higher levels of calcium than normal) which is likely a contributing factor to my OP. I take a low dose of hydrochlorothiazide which keeps me in the high normal range of calcium excretion (diagnosed through 24 hour urine collection). I also have to keep my dietary sodium intake low as there is an interaction with sodium intake and calcium excretion. Without endocrinology on board, I doubt my PCP would have figured this out. I say yes to Endocrinology!

@gravity3 thanks so much.

@fsf thank you for the information. I appreciate it.

@nycmusic thanks so much for the information. I appreciate it.

@ltfh thank you very much for the information. I appreciate it.