Paget's disease is a chronic bone disorder that is due to irregular breakdown and formation of bone tissue. Paget’s disease can affect any bone, but usually affects the skull, the hip and pelvis bones and bones in the legs and back. Paget's disease is also known as osteitis deformans. Paget's disease can cause bones to expand and weaken and may result in bone pain, arthritis, bone deformity and fractures. Paget's disease is rarely effected people under 40. Men and women are approximately equally affected. The prevalence of Paget's disease ranges from 1.5 to 8% depending on age and country of residence. The prevalence of familial Paget's disease (where more than one family member has the disease) ranges from 10 to 40% in different parts of the world.

Paget's disease of bone is more common in the UK than in anywhere else in the world. Paget's disease is even more common in Lancashire where up to 8 per cent of people over 50 have the disease. Symptoms of paget's diesase can include bone pain can occur in any bone affected by paget's disease and is often worse at night. It often localizes to areas adjacent to the joints and can be accompanied by warmth to the touch. Increased head size, bowing of limb, or curvature of spine -- may occur in advanced cases. Hip pain may occur when paget's disease affects the pelvis or thighbone. Headaches and hearing loss may occur when Paget's disease affects the skull. Treatment for Paget's disease can help alleviate pain and may halt the damage done to your bones.

Calcitonin medicine that can help slow bone loss and bone growth. It also can relieve pain. Bisphosphonates are often used to treat Paget’s disease. Exercise is very important in maintaining skeletal health, avoiding weight gain, and maintaining joint mobility. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also be given. These are a type of medication that helps reduce pain and swelling and decrease stiffness. In some cases, surgery is needed if the disease has caused a deformity or damaged a joint. Joint replacement surgery is most commonly used. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may provide some relief of your pain. Patients with Paget's disease should receive 1000-1500 mg of calcium, adequate sunshine, and at least 400 units of vitamin D daily.

Paget's Disease Treatment Tips

1. Calcium is a substance used by your body to build bones.

2. Drink six to eight glasses of water or other fluid a day.

3. Eat a well-balanced diet, and foods rich in calcium.

4. Joint replacement surgery is most commonly used.

5. Avoiding weight gain, and maintaining joint mobility.

6. Exercise is very important in maintaining skeletal health.

7. Anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen used to reduce bone pain.