When it comes to back pain, it can be difficult to determine when it’s time to seek medical help. Pain is a subjective sensation, and it can be hard to know when it’s serious or not. While most back pain is caused by muscle strain or other minor issues, there are times when it can be indicative of a more serious problem.
If your back pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, it could be a sign of something more serious and should be evaluated by a medical professional:
-Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet
-Pain that radiates down your legs
-Pain that worsens with activity or doesn’t improve with rest
-Unexplained weight loss
-Pain that wakes you up at night
-Fever or chills
-Pain that is localized to one spot and doesn’t move
-Urine or stool changes
-Unexplained fatigue
-Trouble breathing or difficulty swallowing
These symptoms can be indicative of a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor right away.
In addition, if you have back pain that has lasted more than three months, it is considered chronic and should be evaluated by a medical professional. Chronic back pain can be caused by a variety of different conditions, such as arthritis, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease.
If you’re not sure whether your back pain is serious or not, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention. Your doctor can help determine the cause of your pain and provide you with the best treatment options.