Do I need symptoms to get a DEXA scan?

No. Bone loss usually causes no symptoms until a bone breaks. A DEXA scan can show low bone density before a first fracture, so you and your doctor can act on it.

A normal result is reassuring, but it doesn't mean you can't break a bone. Your fracture risk also depends on your age, previous fractures, falls and other factors.

If you have broken a bone in a minor fall, have lost more than 4 cm in height as an adult, or are 50 or older and have new or sudden back pain, see your doctor now rather than waiting for a scan.