Today, January 11th, marks World Paget's Awareness Day. This special day is dedicated to raising awareness about Paget's disease of bone, a chronic condition that affects bone remodeling, leading to weakened and deformed bones.

What is Paget's Disease?

Paget's disease is a chronic bone disorder that disrupts the natural process of bone renewal. Instead of healthy, strong bone tissue, Paget's causes rapid bone turnover, leading to:

• Weakened Bones: The new bone formed is often abnormal, making bones more prone to fractures.
• Deformed Bones: The excessive bone growth can cause bowing of long bones, spinal deformities, and enlargement of the skull.
• Joint Pain: The abnormal bone structure can cause pain and stiffness in joints.
• Hearing Loss: In some cases, Paget's can affect the bones of the skull, leading to hearing loss.

Who is at Risk?

While the exact cause of Paget's disease is unknown, certain factors can increase the risk:

• Age: It's more common in people over 50.
• Family History: A family history of Paget's disease increases the risk.
• Ethnicity: It's more prevalent in people of European descent.

Recognizing the Signs

Symptoms of Paget's disease can vary widely and may not always be noticeable. Some common signs include:

• Bone pain: This is the most common symptom, often localized to the affected bones.
• Deformed bones: Bowing of legs, enlarged skull, or spinal curvature.
• Fatigue: The body may use extra energy to cope with the abnormal bone turnover.
• Hearing loss: If the bones of the skull are affected.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Blood tests: To check for elevated alkaline phosphatase levels, a marker of bone turnover.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or bone scans to assess bone damage.

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and may include:

• Bisphosphonates: These medications slow down bone turnover and help strengthen weakened bones.
• Calcitonin: This hormone can help reduce bone pain.
• Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers may be used to manage discomfort.

World Paget's Awareness Day: A Call to Action

This World Paget's Awareness Day, let's raise awareness about this often-overlooked condition. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, don't hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Paget's disease.

Healthiify is committed to providing accessible healthcare information and connecting you with qualified professionals. If you have any concerns about bone health or would like to schedule a consultation with a specialist, please do not hesitate to contact us on:

www.healthiify.com

or call 0700 663 756

Email: [email protected]

Also in conjunction with Bulk Supply Solutions Limited, we are offering exclusive discounts on consumables and equipment’s to aid in screening, medical campaigns, treatment management, preventive check ups and much more with same day delivery within Nairobi and it environs, and 24 hours delivery all over Kenya.

For orders, inquiries or quotations kindly reach bulk supply solutions via: 0712 452 946 or Visit there shop in Wing A, 5^th Floor, Shop No 15, Magic Business Complex, Ronald Ngala Street, Nairobi CBD.

Disclaimer:

This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns.