Bone density, or thickness, gives bones their strength. Diseases that cause bone loss weaken the bones and increase the risk of fractures. Bone density is maintained by an adequate amount of calcium and phosphorus, vitamin D and several hormones, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. When a disorder affects any of these elements, bone loss can result.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes decreased bone density, resulting in porous, brittle bones that can fracture easily. Osteoporosis commonly results from decreased estrogen production in both women and men as they age, explains Merck Manual. Bone loss can happen more rapidly if deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D exist. Osteoporosis usually has no symptoms in its early stage due to the gradual loss of bone. The first sign may be a broken bone of the back, hip or wrist that happens with little or no injury. Treatment may include medications that build the bones, called bisphosphonates, or calcitonin, a hormone that prevents further bone loss.
Paget's Disease
Paget's disease causes the destruction of bone that then grows back abnormally, resulting in deformity and weakness. The cause is not known, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Bones commonly affected by Paget's disease include those of the skull, pelvis, spine and legs. Signs of Paget's disease include pain, bone deformities, fractures and damaged cartilage. When the skull is affected, patients may experience headache, increased head size and hearing loss. Bisphosphonates, medications that relieve pain and keep the disease from progressing, are commonly used to treat Paget's disease.
Peridontitis
Periodontitis is a disease of the gums that can cause bone loss resulting in loose teeth and tooth loss, explains the Merck Manuals Online Medical Libraries. Periodontitis occurs when inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar, called gingivitis, is not treated. The gums then develop deep pockets filled with harmful bacteria that causes the loss of bone that holds the teeth in place. Some diseases and conditions can cause a susceptibility to periodontitis, including diabetes, leukemia and Down syndrome. Pain can result from food becoming impacted in gum pockets. Bad breath can be severe. The gums are commonly red, tender and bleed easily. Treatment includes thorough removal of the diseased layers of the teeth and roots by a periodontist, antibiotics and tooth extractions.
Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism can cause bone loss. The parathyroid gland produces a hormone that controls levels of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D in the bones and blood. In hyperparathyroidism, too much hormone is produced, according to Medline Plus. This results in loss of calcium from the bones. Weakened bones and elevated levels of calcium in the blood cause the signs of the disorder. Back pain, bone and joint pain and fractures are symptoms indicating bone loss. Increased thirst and urination, nausea, fatigue and depression are symptoms caused by elevated levels of calcium circulating in the blood. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and on the severity of the hyperparathyroidism.
