This seems like a silly question, but it's important to me. I had Cancer several years ago (3 years Cancer free now!). During the past two years I've noticed it is getting harder and harder to reach things, and all of my kids are taller than me. I finally got curious and measured myself yesterday. I was right-I'm almost three inches shorter! I don't know if it's due to the Cancer, or maybe it's Osteoporosis. Does anyone have experience like this and know what it could be? I am middle aged, and with all the health problems, I'm just SURE ( :) ) it's some weird disease, but I don't want to go running to the doctor if it's not a real serious thing. Thanks for any replies.
I think you should get a bone density test done. We do shrink a bit over time, but 3 inches might be a case for a bone loss medicine. Talk to your OB/GYN.
It's probably not serious, but it does sound like bone loss which puts you at risk for breaking a bone. And if you are a young Mom, I am sure that would not be desirable :)
(have someone else meaure you to be sure!)
Osteoporosis?
That happened to my Mom's friend.
Perhaps as well, could your cancer treatments have affected your bone density... hence osteoporosis?
Ask your Doctor.
I agree that a bone density test might be a good idea. That seems like a lot in a short period of time. Also, you need to do weight bearing exercises. Even if the weight is minimal, it will help keep your bones strong.
Good luck! Congrats on being cancer free!!
Check into rolfing.....
It's true, we all shrink with time.
My 15 year old is so much taller than me all the sudden I was sure it was shrinkage, but nope....he really is getting that tall with no end in sight.
My grandmother was a very tall woman. Her kids were 6'2" or taller. By the time she was 94, she was about 4 foot 7. Okay...that's a bit of an exaggeration, but she definitely shrunk over the years. She was just a tiny little thing.
Talk to your doctor. Make sure you get as much exercise as you can (it helps strengthen your bones) and get plenty of calcium and vitamin D as long as you're cleared to do so. Make sure you stretch and keep your posture in check as much as possible.
Congratulations on being cancer free!
Best wishes to you!
I definitely think you should see a doctor. Losing height is probably a sign of weakening bones. You may need calcium supplements or other forms of intervention. You may also benefit from seeing a chiropractor, who can often help to adjust your spine and prevent further deterioration.
I am not a doctor...these are just my thoughts and opinions. I know how scary it is to go to the doctor, especially after all you have been through, but the longer you wait, the worse it's going to get.
everyone gets shorter as they get older...my mom and i use to look eye to eye now i can see over her head and she is looking at my chest!!! i wouldn't worry about it too too much!!
Me too, but I'm in my 60's. My discs are hardening and compressing – a normal enough occurence at my age, and a bit of bone loss could be kicking in, too. But if I were middle aged, I'd want to talk to my doc about it.
