Pain
Signs That Back Pain Needs Emergency Attention
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In many cases, back pain is manageable with time and conservative treatment. However, some cases of back pain are a medical emergency.
Here are some signs that back pain requires emergency medical attention:
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
Back pain accompanied by the loss of control of bowel or bladder function indicates spinal cord compression (myelopathy). A rare but serious condition called cauda equina syndrome (compression of the spinal nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord) requires immediate medical attention. - Loss of feeling in the arms or legs
Numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms or legs can be a sign of CES, myelopathy, a severely herniated disc, or other serious conditions. - Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
When back pain is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, it may be a sign of a serious medical condition such as cancer. Symptoms of a spinal tumor include back pain that worsens at night, loss of appetite, neurological symptoms, such as weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, nausea or vomiting, and fever. - Severe abdominal pain
Back pain rarely wraps around to the abdomen. When it does, it may be a sign of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The pain is typically severe enough that standing up straight is difficult. - Fever
When a fever accompanies back pain, it can be a sign of infection in the spine. A spinal infection can have serious complications, such as abscesses and neurological problems.
Individuals with one or more of these signs or symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.