Paget's disease causes an abnormal breakdown of bone issue. This causes bones to reform abnormally, becoming bigger and weaker than before. Paget's disease most frequently involves the arms, collar bone, legs, pelvis or spine. The exact cause is unknown; however, researchers believe that it may be genetic or caused by a viral infection in the early stages of life. While genetic risk factors cannot be avoided -- and diseases without a known cause cannot be prevented -- early detection if your best option in dealing with paget's disease.
Step 1
Know the risk factors. If you are over 40 and male, you are more likely to develop paget's disease. This disease is most prevalent in individuals of Anglo-Saxon descent.
Step 2
Consider your family history. If you have a close relative with paget's disease, you are more likely to develop this disease yourself.
Step 3
Be aware of the symptoms. While many individuals with paget's may never experience symptoms, the most common complaint in patients with paget's disease is bone pain. You may experience pain in your pelvis, skull, spine and legs.
Step 4
Visit your doctor. If you are experiencing pain in your joints and bones, consult your physician. It is also advisable to visit your doctor if you are experiencing tingling and weakness in your bones or if you notice any deformities in your bones.
Step 5
Follow your doctor's orders. Your doctor may order X-rays or a bone scan. These tests can help point out deformities as well as your bones that are most effected by paget's disease.
Step 6
Take a blood or urine test. Your doctor may order lab tests to help diagnosis this disease. Paget's disease patients often have elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase in their blood and increased levels of hydroxyproline in their urine.
Step 7
Follow your doctor's orders. Your doctor may recommend medication to help control your paget's disease. Medication may be oral or injected. Medication helps to control calcium levels and bone metabolism. Consider surgery if your doctor advises this option. Surgery can help to realign bones and replace joints that have been damaged by paget's disease.
Tips and Warnings
- By exercising regularly, you can maintain and build strength and mobility in your joints and bones. Eating well is also beneficial to bone health. Ensure you are consuming adequate levels of calcium and vitamin D.
- Always consult your doctor before beginning diet or exercise with paget's disease.
