Back pain has become a very common problem these days. Fortunately, most cases of back pain get better on their own and may resolve with proper rest and self-care. Yet, there are still many signs and red flags that indicate you might have a serious underlying condition. In such cases, it’s essential to see a qualified back pain doctor.
Let’s find out what these signs and red flags are:
When to See a Doctor for Back Pain
1. Severe Pain
If you’re dealing with intense back pain that’s making it hard to get through your day or isn’t getting better with rest and self-care, it’s crucial to see a doctor. This kind of severe pain could be a red flag for something more serious going on, like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.
2. Numbness or Weakness
If you’re noticing any numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs or feet along with your back pain, don’t wait to see your doctor. These symptoms are your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right – there could be some nerve damage or compression going on. And trust me, you don’t want to ignore that. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent disability, and nobody wants that.
3. Bowel or Bladder Problems
Some back pain patients report difficulty controlling their bowel or bladder movements. These symptoms can be a sign of cauda equina syndrome. This is a rare but very serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. If that’s the case with you, only a back pain doctor can diagnose your condition and recommend a suitable treatment plan.
4. Unexplained Weight Loss
If you’ve suddenly lost weight while experiencing back pain, you need to act as soon as you can. Unexpected weight loss might seem like a blessing at first, but it could be a sign that something more serious is going on behind the scenes, like cancer or an infection. That’s definitely not something you want to mess around with.
5. Fever
Back pain accompanied by a fever should never be ignored, as it may indicate a serious infection like meningitis or osteomyelitis. Seeking prompt medical attention from a doctor is crucial in such cases.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
1. Pain that Worsens at Night
Pain that Worsens at Night If your back pain is keeping you up at night or getting worse when you lie down, don’t just toss and turn – go see a doctor. This could be a red flag that something more serious is going on, like a tumor or an infection. Better to get it checked out and have peace of mind.
2. Pain that Radiates Down the Leg
Pain that starts at the back and radiates down to one of your legs could be caused bu the compression of the sciatic nerve. It can bother you for a very long time if left untreated. Therefore, it’s important to see a doctor so they can work on it as soon as possible.
3. Pain that Persists for More than a Few Weeks
If your back pain doesn’t go away within a few weeks even with rest and self-care, you should never ignore it. It may be a sign of a more significant problem, such as osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis, so it’s crucial to consult a doctor.
4. Pain that Occurs After a Fall or Injury
If you experience back pain after a fall or injury, it’s important to see a doctor. A fall or injury can cause a fracture or other serious damage to the spine that requires immediate medical attention.
The Bottom Line
While most cases of back pain resolve on their own with rest and self-care, discussed above are some signs you must see a doctor. Back pain has become a common issue given our lifestyle, but it is not normal to have back pain that makes it hard for you to move, sit comfortably, or walk. If back pain is limiting your ability in any way, please note that it’s just the time to see the doctor – Dr. Manu Mengi one of the Best Doctor for Back Pain in Chandigarh.
