Back Pain & Red Flag Symptoms
Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work. It is estimated that up to 80% of the population will experience back pain at some point in their life.
With back pain being so common there is a frequent sentiment that we should just “man up,” “soldier on,” and ignore these pain symptoms. While it is okay to grit your teeth and persevere through pain at times, there are other times that we should not disregard painful symptoms. These so-called “red flag symptoms” can lead to more serious injury and health issues. These warning signs should not be dismissed and should prompt you to seek medical attention. They include the following but are not limited to:
- If your pain is associated with weakness or numbness, it is imperative that you seek medical advice. If ignored this weakness and/or numbness may become permanent.
- If your back pain is concurrently associated with a fever, it could be an indication of a more serious infection. If the fever lasts more than a couple of days and if it is associated with difficulty breathing, headache, or abdominal pain, go to the ER.
- If your back pain is associated with loss of bowel or bladder control, it could be an indication of disc herniation and compression of nerves affecting the bowel or bladder and should immediately trigger a ride to a local ER.
- If your back pain is the result of recent trauma, it is important to monitor your injuries as you heal. If your pain is worsening as you are recuperating from injury you should seek medical care.
- If your back pain is associated with unexplained weight loss you should also seek medical care as this can be an indication of more serious health issues.
If you are unsure if your symptoms qualify as “red flag symptoms” or if you have any questions at all about your back pain, we recommend that you contact us ASAP. Advanced Spine and Pain (ASAP) pain doctors are double board-certified and have years of experience and expertise to help you quickly, and safely get control of your back pain.