Hi everyone.

I have a question due to some recent issues about bone density. Does anyone know of a connection between bone density, Osteoporosis, breaks etc in people with HD.

If there is a connection, does anyone know where I can get information?

Thanks,

Mike

I havent heard this discussed either. Let us know if you find some info. to support a connection.

Vicky

hmmm, I don't know about that mike, I've never seen it mentioned here. I know people with hd have too much calcium in their brain, and that calcium supplements can make hd worse, from what I've read, and from my own experience.

I have not heard of a specific link between HD and bone density. There is however a very strong link between decreased bone density in the chronically bedridden. This comes from the lack of weightbearing stimulation on the long bones (use it or lose it). In this case, the only link would be on those who are bed and chair ridden.

Patty

Yes, there is a connection! Here's the article. You may want to share it with your doctor since this was an unexpected finding and one that has yet to be explained; I don't think many people, doctors included, have seen this study.

[www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

That was interesting Marsha, thank you. But is there still a problem with how people with hd process calcium in the brain? I know I'm not saying it proper, but hopefully you know what I'm thinking of

Yes there is, Barb, and it looks like a major pathology.

Well Howdy Doodee! Not what I wanted to hear. Just kidding. Let me share the background.

About two months ago I broke my back in two places. My HD mind apparently didn't understand I couldn't do what I once did. Normally it does a good job weighing my options since things take place slowly there now. I attempted to move a LARGE limb out of the way so my wife wouldn't try. Well, snap crackle pop and a little fall and two weeks later I find out I broke my back. Yes, it did feel that way for two weeks I just had to jump through the hoops.

The Ortho (spine specialist) filled me in on Osteoporosis, not being female and other reasons I should not have done this. Nothing against him but he avoids the HD subject. He did say a couple of days ago that a sedentary life style over a few years could contribute to Osteoporosis.

Thanks so much for the article and replies. I don't quite know what I'm reading in the article, perhaps if you have time Marsha you could simplify for me. I will share the article.

Thanks to all,

Mike

Wow Mike! Sorry to hear about your back! I hope you're doing ok. Do you need surgery? Anyway, I'm really glad you asked this question. I never knew anything about it. I wonder if it is related to exercise levels? As Barb points out about calcium not being processed correctly in the brain, makes me wonder if a PhD should stay away from calcium supplements? Also, I wonder if they should have a bone density scan or take something like Fosamax?
Thanks again for the question Mike and so very sorry to hear about your back. Let us know how you're doing.

I'm thirty one ( HD Gene positive) and have osteopena. It the level before what you have.

My doctor said to me, "Your far too young for this."

Thanks for the concern. No surgery thankfully. I'm doing better now. Just have to be careful.

Mike