Many individuals have encountered back pain at one time or another, and it stands as the top cause of disability globally. It’s also the primary reason for work absences. The discomfort can vary from a lingering dull ache to sharp, debilitating pain lasting weeks.
While there are numerous home remedies for mild cases, knowing when to consult a doctor is crucial. If you experience any of the below-given symptoms related to your back pain, you should seek medical advice from experts like Great Neck, NY pain management specialists.
Increased Pain During Specific Times or Positions: If your back pain is severe enough to interrupt your sleep or worsens in particular positions, like when lying down, this may indicate a more significant issue. Such symptoms could be warning signs of a more systemic issue like an infection, bone fracture, severe nerve compression, or even cancer.
Accompanying Fever: Although common illnesses like the flu can cause both fever and body aches, including back pain. However, a fever unresponsive to over-the-counter medication may signify a severe infection requiring immediate attention. In such cases, doctors may recommend antibiotics and a period of rest to combat the infection.
Difficulty with Bowel Movements or Urination: If you experience a sudden lack of control over bowel or bladder functions along with back pain, head to the emergency room immediately. These symptoms could indicate cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition where the lower spinal nerves are compressed.
Delay in treatment could lead to permanent nerve damage. If numbness in the legs accompanies these symptoms, surgical intervention might be required to relieve the pressure on the nerves.
Unaccountable Weight Loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss coupled with back pain is a cause for concern and warrants medical attention. It’s crucial to consult a physician to rule out severe conditions like infections or tumours that may be underlying causes.
Pain Radiating to Other Parts of the Body: If your back pain is severe and extends to other areas, such as down your leg, consult a doctor. This could be a symptom of sciatica, a condition affecting the sciatic nerve that originates in the lower back and branches down each leg. It’s often caused by a herniated disk, and medical evaluation can offer various treatment options.
Persistent Pain for More Than a Week: Back pain usually improves within a few days. However, if your discomfort lasts for more than a week, it’s time to see a doctor. A medical professional can conduct necessary examinations or tests to diagnose the root cause of your persistent back pain, thereby enabling more effective treatment. As with many health issues, early intervention is often key to preventing further complications.
