4 Common Signs It's Time To Schedule A Doctor's Appointment For Your Back Pain
You likely have experienced back pain at some point in your life. Back pain can be distressful and comes in various forms, from mild aches that last a few hours to prolonged pains that endure for weeks. Often, doctors can recommend appropriate treatment plans depending on the intensity of your back pain. However, how do you know when to stop using pain-relieving solutions and visit a physician? Well, here are four tell-tale signs it's time to schedule an immediate appointment with a professional physician for long-term solutions to your back pain problems:
Persistent Back Pain Lasting Over A Week
In most cases, back pains subside after a few days. However, pain that lasts over a week is a sign of a severe underlying condition requiring medical attention. Your physician might conduct various tests and exams to determine the root cause of your back pain. Like any other health concern, early problem detection and preventative measures will help find a lasting solution to your back pain.
Pain That Spreads To Other Body Parts
If you experience pain that is not only restricted to your back but spreading to other vital parts, like legs or hips, it's time to visit your physician. Generally, this is a sign that specific nerves connected to your spine and lower limbs have a problem. Therefore, it's imperative to schedule an immediate doctor's appointment. Your physician might take X-rays or MRIs to diagnose the problem and devise a proper treatment plan.
Numbness, Weakness Or Tingling Feeling
If you experience back pain accompanied by a feeling of numbness, weakness or tingling, you might be suffering from nerve damage or irritation. That's especially true if your back pain persists even after using over-the-counter pain relievers. When left untreated, nerve damage can cause considerable damage and potential disability.
Difficulties With Your Bowels Or Urination
If your back pain comes with poor bowel control or urination, it's the perfect time to visit your local emergency centre. These signs are related to Cauda Equina syndrome, where paralysis of nerves in the lower spine occurs. While this syndrome is rare, it can cause permanent damage to your nerves when left unaddressed. Therefore, if you experience such symptoms, your doctor might prescribe surgery necessary for decompressing nerves and preserving their proper function.
Are you experiencing any of these symptoms accompanied by back pain? If so, consider scheduling an immediate appointment with your doctor for early diagnosis and treatment.