Best Type of Doc for Bone Health?

[Dignan]

For those with E who might have bone loss from extended use of AEDs or for those that might have it in the future, does anyone have a recommendation on the best type of doc to see for bone density issues?

I've read that there is not specific type of specialist in this area, and some articles say use a general internist, others say an endocrinologist, and others a rheumatologist.

Wondered if any out there had personal experience or heard from those with personal experience who helped them the most, was most knowledgeable, and seemed to have an understanding of the relationship between, E, AEDs, and bone health.

 

[giveasmile]

A good endocrinologist is who I recommend, especially a neuroendocrinologist if you can find one.

 

[2ndchances]

I'm glad you posted this, as it's something I'll have to look into soon as well. :tdown:

 

[Dignan]

A good endocrinologist is who I recommend, especially a neuroendocrinologist if you can find one.

I'd agree with this for bones or anything else for that matter (its good to have someone who understands more than just seizure prevention in case drug effects start causing problem not brain related). However, good luck finding one in your area. They are rare.

Of course, there are plenty of regular endocrinologists (who primarily deal with diabetes and thyroid issues) who claim they have neuroendocrinology training.

What they often fail to tell you is that their training was a course they took in medical school or residency and that it is generally not a part of their everyday practice. In those cases, the patient often knows more about the neuro side of things than the doctor.

 

[Nakamova]

My mother has hip issues, and is currently seeing a rheumatologist. But I think it may depend a bit on where you get your health care, and what factors or combination of factors are affecting your bone health. In my case, I would need to go through my regular doctor, who would probably make a recommendation for a specialist within the particular hospital system -- it could be an endocrinologist, gynecologist, rheumatologist, or orthopedist.

 

[valeriedl]

I had a herniated disc, don't know if that had any thing to do with meds or not. I went to and Orthopedic Surgeon and he had to do surgery to get things straightened out - lol.