Most people have experienced back pain at some point in their life. In fact, back pain is a leading reason for disability worldwide, and one common reason individuals miss work. Back pain could manifest in numerous forms, ranging from a dull aching that lasts only several days to serious pain that lasts for weeks. Based on the intensity of back pain Cedar Rapids, there are numerous treatments you may try at home. Unfortunately, not all back pain is manageable with at-home treatments. Here are some key signs that your back pain is an emergency.
- You Sustained a Back Injury
Back pain immediately following a fall or vehicle collision may signify damage to internal organs and broken bones. You may sustain a spinal injury if you fall from a significant height, sustain a tackle when playing sports, or dive into shallow water and hit the bottom surface.
Often, individuals assume they are okay if they walk away from a collision without glaring concerns. However, many do not realize that adrenaline’s effect after injury might trick one into thinking they are fine, yet they have underlying injuries that require treatments.
- Persistent Pain
Most back problems last several weeks and resolve with cold and hot packs, massage, stretching, and other DIY solutions. If you have attempted these measures yet do not experience a significant reduction in your pain, you should consult a specialist. Back pain that lasts for months signifies a more serious underlying condition that requires immediate attention.
- The Pain Keeps You Up at Night
Back pain from overuse or a mild injury alleviates with rest, and you should be able to enjoy a restful night’s sleep. However, you should seek specialist care if you experience worsening back pain at night. Back problems that worsen at night signify a serious issue like a spinal tumor, spinal bone infection, or degenerating disc.
- Weakness and Numbness
Back pain associated with weakness, numbness, and tingling signifies nerve damage that worsens without therapy. If you lift a heavy object, you may suffer a herniated disc, and your physician will perform a physical exam to establish the area of the slipped disc. Compressed spine nerves from spinal stenosis, sciatica, and other conditions also lead to numbness in the legs and back.
- Fever
Occasionally, back pain triggers whole-body reactions, such as chills, night sweats, and fever. An unrelenting fever associated with back pain might signal a spinal column infection, kidney infection, or another life-threatening systemic condition. In such cases, visit the emergency room immediately to obtain urgent care.
- Radiating and Sharp Pain
Back pain resulting from mild health concerns manifests as a dull aching that only lasts several weeks. A shooting pain signifies an issue with the internal organs or torn muscles or ligaments. If the pain radiates to your glutes or legs, you might have a nerve compression condition requiring medical attention.
- Incontinence
Back pain accompanied by groin numbness and bowel or bladder incontinence should not be overlooked. These symptoms signify a rare condition known as cauda equina syndrome, where the compressed nerve roots in the lumbar spine fail to send sensations. This health concern requires immediate surgery for complete recovery. If you fail to obtain immediate care, you might suffer long-term incontinence, paralysis, or sexual dysfunction. Seek for good continence products if you need.
Even though it could be extremely painful, most back pain is not a sign of a serious health concern. Back pain often stems from muscle strains and sprains, and it will improve with time and at-home treatments like over-the-counter painkillers, ice and heat therapy, exercise, and more. However, if you are experiencing serious back pain accompanied by any of the symptoms highlighted above, you should seek emergency care immediately. Your specialist will accurately diagnose your back pain and suggest the most appropriate care plan to address the underlying concerns.
