Is It An Issue That I Have Lost Height Since I Was In College?

Posted on Thu, 13 Oct 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 Answered on

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : I am going to be 48 years old. I used to be 5'7-1/2 in college and now I measured at 5'6" at the doctor's office. Is this an issue that I lost so much height ?

Answered by Dr. CS Narayan (6 hours later)

Hello and thanks for your query.

I shall make an effort to provide you with good professional recommendations specific to your questions.

I understand your height loss is of concern.

I see that you have lost 1 -1 1/2 inch over some unknown period.
Normally, height certainly decreases to a varying extent in individuals as they age. This is perfectly normal. You are close to menopausal age, which makes this sense.

Do not worry too much about this and check your Calcium levels initially with a BMD (bone mineral density) scan or with a consultation. It will show your risk status if any.

Eat good nutritious and balanced diet specially XXXXXXX in calcium in case you show low levels.

Yet again, I duly appreciate your query to me, I do hope that you have found something useful to help you and I shall be glad to answer any further apprehensions.

Sincerely,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Radhika