Bone Disease

Bone is more than just the framework of our bodies, it is living tissue that gives us shape and support. Bones also provide protection for some of our most vital organs. Unfortunately, even though they are a strong framework, they are not immune to infection and other ailments. Any affliction that involves the bones, whether caused by genetic factors or viral infection, is considered a bone disease.

Diseases

• There are different kinds of bone ailments, from deformities to weakness. The most well known bone problems are osteoporosis and Paget's disease. Osteoporosis is very common in older women and makes your bones weak and more easily broken. Paget's disease is most common in the spine and pelvis, and makes your bones grow larger and weaker. Paget's is more common in older men.

Symptoms

• Each disease and disorder has its own unique set of symptoms, but some of the more common ones that can carry over from one disease to the next are frequent breaking, pain and deformity. Less obvious symptoms such as hearing loss and blue hue to the white area of the eyes can also be indicative of a bone disease. In some disorders, loss of appetite and vomiting may occur.

Causes

• While the causes of some diseases remain a mystery, some causative factors have been discovered, and they vary by disease. Many bone disease are caused by genetics, infection and injuries. Still others are due to a lack of bone collagen and chemical abnormalities. Poor nutrition has also been linked to bone problems, especially a lack of calcium and vitamin D. Some medications can have negative side effects on bone growth and health.

Risk Factors

• Certain risk factors can make you more vulnerable to developing a bone disease, including chronic medication usage and blood disorders. Steroid use and heredity are also possible links. Other medical conditions, such as pancreatitis and treatments with radiation or chemotherapy, can weaken your immune system, allowing other infectious diseases or viruses to take hold. Frustratingly enough, many diagnosed patient show no risk factors at all, yet are afflicted with a bone disease.

Diagnosis

• Doctors use multiple tests for diagnosing a bone disease, and the exact type of tests you will have will depend upon your symptoms and your doctor's discretion. The most common diagnostic procedures done to detect a bone disease include a physical exam, recording of your complete medical history and lab tests run on your blood, urine and various other bodily fluids. X-rays and MRI can also be used to get an accurate picture of your bones for diagnosis.

Treatments

• Treatment of your particular bone disease will depend upon a number of factors, including your age and overall health, the extent of the disease and your preference. Various treatments are available, and again depend on the type of bone disease you have. They range in complexity from the simple, casts and crutches to assist in healing, to the more invasive, such as surgical procedures. Talk to your doctor about which treatments are available and most effective for your disease.