Seniors May Face 'Bone Death' In Jaw

Seniors may be facing a problem that they haven't heard much about: "bone death" in the jaw.

[Marlene]

I've had a prescription sitting here for months and I'm scared to death to take it -- either Foxamax or Boniva or any of the bone building drugs -- I've been told I have osteopenia and the very start of osteoporosis in my hip already. Years ago I was given one of the arthritis medications that is now causing heart problems - glad I never took that, either, since I already have valve issues. Seems my common sense rules my head these days as to these new and not so new drugs are out on the market.

[Marlene]

P.S. I'm only 55

[Tri]

It's a tough decision with medications, these days. They "fix" the problems, but do you ever read the possible side effects? One script listed death as a possibility! I notice that most doctors support the drug companies and pill pushing. There are medications which are necessary to support and save lives. Don't be afraid to ask you doctor about alternatives and more holistic approaches.

[darren_1299]

very interesting,

[Alec Berg]

I think seniors face more of a threat from falling down or being out late at night. We medicate the heck out of them but never solve some of the practical dangers that seniors face.

[Someone]

Marlene wrote:

I've had a prescription sitting here for months and I'm scared to death to take it -- either Foxamax or Boniva or any of the bone building drugs -- I've been told I have osteopenia and the very start of osteoporosis in my hip already. Years ago I was given one of the arthritis medications that is now causing heart problems - glad I never took that, either, since I already have valve issues. Seems my common sense rules my head these days as to these new and not so new drugs are out on the market.

I too have been told I have osteopenia. However my doc said that with the right amount of calcium, and excercise everyday that there is no reason to rush to one of the drugs you named. You might want to get a second opinion.

[Marlene]

Someone wrote:

<quoted text>
I too have been told I have osteopenia. However my doc said that with the right amount of calcium, and excercise everyday that there is no reason to rush to one of the drugs you named. You might want to get a second opinion.

I've been taking calcium w/D for about 3 months now - then I hear that D can make your bones and joints hurt even more. Catch 22. I have a stress fracture in my knee, along with arthritis, so sometimes it's difficult to exercise, although I try everyday to at least stretch. In fact, I'm going to another orthopedic doctor next month because it's been a year since I've had the same sharp pain (??stress fracture) and nothing is helping.

[Sherry]

Good to know this information, thanks.

[DMc in Dallas]

I'm 61, this is just one more thing for me to deal with. HELP