Back pain is one of the most common types of pain that people experience regularly. In situations like the one listed above, back pain is an expected result of heavy lifting, overuse, or strain. But in some instances, back pain is a symptom of a more significant problem.
How do you know when to see your doctor about back pain? Please keep reading to learn five signs that it's time to make an appointment!
The Five Signs
1. Pain is Constant or Intense
2. Weakness, Numbness, or Tingling in Extremities
3. Unintended Weight Loss
When back pain appears alongside unintended weight loss, you want to make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.
Weight loss and back pain could point to several life-threatening issues. One such issue is endocarditis, which occurs when bacteria collects in the heart's inner lining. As a result, your metabolism kicks into overdrive and burns fat quickly, resulting in weight loss. Often, people with endocarditis will also have a fever and reduced appetite.
Another dangerous disease associated with back pain is spinal tuberculosis. Spinal TB destroys and collapses the vertebrae over time. Other symptoms might include night sweats and fever.
4. Lasts More Than 3 Months
Chronic back pain could be due to various diseases, from arthritis to cancer. It may also result from spinal stenosis, a herniated disc, sciatica, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, kidney stones, obesity, scoliosis, or other medical issues. So, you can see why you might need the help of a medical professional to identify what might be causing your long-term back pain.
5. Bowel or Bladder Control Problems
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) usually has back pain and incontinence co-occurring. CES is when a pinched nerve at the end of the spinal canal causes many symptoms, including low back pain, incontinence, numbness, and leg weakness.
Consequences of Ignoring Pain
Ignoring pain may result in chronic pain, where the injury itself heals, but the pain remains. Chronic pain is challenging to treat because it forms new neural pathways that keep pain around even when you should be feeling better. You then have to engage the mind to reroute these neural pathways and deal with any unacknowledged psychological, emotional, and physical issues that could perpetuate your pain.
No, You Shouldn't "Suck It Up"
Finally, remember to use your Kailo Pain Patch as you solve your back pain issues. It's designed to relieve pain in seconds without oral medication, and scientists theorize that the Kailo Pain Patch works by interfering with your body's electrical system. In addition, an exciting new clinical study showed a significant decrease in musculoskeletal pain, such as back pain, neck pain, muscle and tendon pain, and many others.
Disclaimer: Kailo should not be used if you have a pacemaker or are pregnant. Always consult your doctor or health care professional before using Kailo.