Many people experience back pain at one point in their lives. Statistics show that back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and a common reason individuals leave work. Back pain comes in several forms ranging from a dull ache that lasts just for some days to severe, debilitating pain that lasts for weeks or months. If you are experiencing back pain cedar rapids, you can utilize home remedies depending on the intensity of the pain. But when is it time to stop home remedies and seek medical treatment? Here is a look at the back pain signs that indicate it’s time to see a doctor.
You Experience Back Pain for Over a Week
Most back pain goes away after a few days. However, you should visit your doctor if your back pain doesn’t subside for more than a week. The doctor will carry out the necessary tests or examinations to help diagnose the underlying cause of your back pain. Similar to most health conditions, early prevention and treatment are the keys.
The Pain Spreads to Other Body Parts
If you are experiencing debilitating back pain that spreads to other body parts, such as shooting pain down the leg, you should contact a back pain specialist. If your back pain goes down your leg, it could be an indication you have sciatica, a condition that is caused by a herniated disk. A doctor will offer you a variety of treatment methods to help relieve the pain.
You Have Tingling, Weakness, or Numbness
Chronic back pain accompanied by tingling, numbness, or a feeling of weakness can signal nerve damage or irritation. This is particularly the case if the back pain persists even after taking over-the-counter pain medications. Therefore, you should talk to your doctor for proper treatment to avoid more nerve damage. Also, if you are experiencing back pain with a fever that is not responding to OTC medications, you could have an infection that requires immediate treatment.
Your Pain Worsens in Certain Positions or Times
If your back pain worsens in certain positions, such as lying in a particular position, this might signify a more severe problem. This might also be the case if your back pain wakes you up during the middle of the night. This might signify a more systematic issue, such as a fracture, infection, cancer, or severe nerve compression.
You Are Experiencing Problems with Your Urination or Bowel
If you are experiencing back pain and losing control over your urination or bowels, you should seek professional medical care as soon as possible. The symptoms are linked to cauda equina syndrome, in which the lower spine nerves get paralyzed. If left untreated, this condition can cause permanent nerve damage. Your doctor might recommend you undertake surgery to decompress the nerves and preserve their proper functionality.
Generally, don’t let your back pain affect your life quality. If the above-reviewed signs or the pain accompanying your back pain doesn’t go away for weeks, you should see a doctor or back pain specialist immediately. Your doctor will carry out a comprehensive physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests to rule out or confirm the underlying condition and create a customized treatment plan to relieve your pain.