Back Pain Symptoms
When To See a Doctor About Back Pain Symptoms
Back pain can interfere with your quality of life and your ability to do basic tasks. Back pain symptoms range from pain and stiffness in the lower back to headaches and pain at the base of your neck. The types of symptoms you experience depend on what part of your back is injured and the cause of your back injuries. If you suffer from back pain on a regular basis, you should talk to your doctor about your symptoms.
Severity of Pain
The severity of your back pain is the most important back pain symptom to share with your doctor. Severe pain in your lower back, upper back or neck area can be a symptom of spinal cord damage or other serious problems that may require surgical intervention. Severe pain in your head and neck can also be the sign of a serious medical condition such as meningitis or an impending stroke or aneurysm, so you should see your doctor as soon as possible if you experience these back pain symptoms.
Frequency of Pain
Your doctor will usually be concerned about how frequently you experience back pain symptoms. Chronic pain or pain after lifting heavy objects are of particular concern because these symptoms indicate a serious injury to your back that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
Other Symptoms
Some medical conditions cause other symptoms along with back pain symptoms. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience numbness or tingling sensations along with your back pain because spinal cord problems often cause these symptoms. You should also be concerned if you experience signs of illness or infection such as fever, strong smelling urine or urine continence along with back pain, if your pain worsens when you bend at the waist or if you feel pain in the back of your legs along with your back pain. These symptoms all suggest more serious medical conditions that should be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.
