Could Asthmatic Conditions and Spinal Discomfort Be Connected?
Wrestling with both asthma and back pain? Let's get to the bottom of it!
Asthma and Back Pain: What's the lowdown?
Here's the deal: asthma and back pain could be intertwined. Why so? Because the muscles that aid you in breathing also play a vital role in supporting your spinal column. With asthma, these muscles can endure extra stress, which might lead to back pain.
Medications, exercises, and home remedies can help alleviate both asthma and back pain.
Asthma and Back Pain: The Link
Breathing requires a slew of muscles, notably your diaphragm and the external intercostals (located on both sides of your rib cage). However, these muscles are part of your core and perform other roles, such as maintaining your posture and spinal control.
Asthma, due to the difficulty in exhaling, imposes extra strain on breathing muscles, eventually putting stress on muscles that help you stay upright. As a result, posture issues may arise, potentially causing back pain.
A 2016 research review did find a correlation between asthma and back pain. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to establish a definitive link.
Is Asthma Causing Your Back Pain?
Back pain has several causes. While there are theories linking back pain and asthma, the relationship isn't fully understood yet. Other factors causing back pain may include:- muscle or tendon strain or injury- disc problems (e.g., herniated disc)- poor posture- overexertion- kidney stones- aging- arthritis
Common Asthma Symptoms
Uncertain about asthma symptoms? Watch out for:- wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)- shortness of breath- chest tightness (which may be painful)- persistent coughing
Certain triggers can cause asthma attacks, such as:- pet dander- dust mites- pollen- mold- smoke- air pollution
Seeing a Doc
If your symptoms interfere with your daily life, seek medical advice. In case of an emergency, attend the ER if:- you can barely speak due to breathlessness- your chest muscles are straining considerably to breathe- you can't walk due to severity of symptoms- your lips or fingernails turn blue- your symptoms don't improve after using a rescue inhaler
Prescription Treatments for Asthma and Back Pain
Your doctor will tailor a treatment plan for your asthma considering the severity and other factors unique to your situation. Some asthma treatments may also help manage back pain. These could include:- Anticholinergics: medication that prohibits muscles from constricting around your airways- Anti-inflammatories: drugs that reduce swelling and mucus in your lungs- Biological therapy drugs: typically prescribed for severe asthma cases
In case of severe back pain, your doctor might prescribe pain meds like muscle relaxants or recommend regular steroid injections.
Home Remedies
For additional relief, give these home remedies a try:
Home Remedies for Asthma
Your doctor or an occupational therapist can instruct you in various breathing techniques:- The Buteyko breathing technique: learn to breathe more slowly and effectively- Pursed-lip breathing: breathe in through your nose and out for twice as long through pursed lips- Deep diaphragmatic breathing: breathe from an area lower and deeper in your chest- The Papworth method: a combination of belly breathing and stress reduction
Home Remedies for Back Pain
- Acupuncture: research suggests acupuncture can offer short-term pain relief
- Massage: reduces muscle tension and inflammation, potentially lessening back pain
- Heat/ice therapy: alternately applying ice packs and warm compresses can help soothe inflammation
- Warm baths: reduce inflammation and help you relax
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: pain meds like ibuprofen or naproxen can help, but consult your doctor first
Conclusion
If you have asthma, back pain might tag along. The relationship isn't straightforward, but by understanding the potential interplay between asthma and your back, you can work with your doctor to find relief and improve your quality of life.
- Due to the added stress on breathing muscles from asthma, back pain can potentially occur as a result of posture issues.
- Medications like ibuprofen, in addition to anti-inflammatory drugs for asthma, can provide relief from both asthma symptoms and back pain.
- Techniques such as the Buteyko breathing technique, pursed-lip breathing, deep diaphragmatic breathing, and the Papworth method can help manage asthma symptoms and potentially reduce back pain.
