Symptoms of lower back pain and cancer, and when to consult a healthcare professional
## Common Causes and Warning Signs of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is a common issue that affects a significant number of adults, with approximately 80% experiencing it at some point in their lives. This article aims to shed light on the most prevalent causes of lower back pain, as well as the warning signs that necessitate medical attention.
### Common Causes
- **Muscle Strains and Sprains:** These are the primary sources of acute lower back pain. They occur due to overstretching or tearing of muscles and ligaments, often from improper lifting or twisting[1]. - **Intervertebral Disc Degeneration:** This is a common mechanical cause of lower back pain, where the rubbery discs between the vertebrae lose their cushioning ability over time[1]. - **Herniated or Ruptured Discs:** When discs bulge or rupture, they can press on nearby nerves, causing pain and other symptoms[1][4]. - **Radiculopathy and Sciatica:** These conditions result from nerve irritation or compression, often causing pain radiating down the legs[1][4]. - **Inflammatory Diseases:** Conditions like arthritis and spondylitis can cause inflammation and pain in the lower back[1]. - **Osteoporosis:** A decrease in bone density can lead to painful fractures in the vertebrae[1]. - **Poor Posture and Weak Core Muscles:** These can contribute to lower back pain due to increased strain on the back muscles[5]. - **Stress and Tension:** These can cause muscle tightness and pain[5].
### Conditions Causing Abnormal Spinal Curves
Scoliosis, hyplordosis, and kyphosis are conditions that cause an abnormal curve in the spine. While less common as causes of lower back pain, they can contribute to discomfort and should be considered[6].
### Less Common Causes
- **Spinal Cancer:** Although rare, affecting fewer than 1% of adults, spinal cancer can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty walking, and paralysis[7]. - **Metastatic Cancer:** Advanced prostate cancer can sometimes spread to the bones, causing pain in the spine, ribs, and hips[8]. - **Lung Cancer:** Pain can spread to the lower back as a result of lung cancer[9].
### Warning Signs
It is essential to seek medical attention for lower back pain under specific conditions:
- **Severe Symptoms:** If you experience severe symptoms such as loss of bladder or bowel control, severe leg weakness, numbness in the groin area, or pain accompanied by a fever, seek immediate medical attention[10]. - **Persistent Pain:** If your lower back pain persists or worsens over time, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment[2]. - **Red Flags:** If your pain is associated with recently lifting something heavy, falls, or other injuries, it would be wise to seek medical advice[3]. - **No Improvement:** If conservative treatments like stretching and rest do not provide relief, consulting a doctor is recommended[3].
Understanding the cause of your pain and recognizing when medical intervention is necessary can help you manage your symptoms effectively and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing lower back pain, it is essential to pay close attention to any changes in your symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/back-pain/ [2] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377684 [3] https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/back-pain/when-see-doctor-back-pain [4] https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/herniated-disc [5] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/back-pain/art-20048389 [6] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scoliosis/ [7] https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancers-in-general/spinal-cancer [8] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/treatment/hormone-therapy/side-effects/bone-pain.html [9] https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancers-in-general/lung-cancer/symptoms [10] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/back-pain/when-to-get-help/
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