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Warning-sign checks

Back pain: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help now if back pain occurs with:

    • New loss of bladder or bowel control
    • Numbness around the genitals, buttocks, or inner thighs
    • Severe or quickly worsening weakness in one or both legs
    • Chest pain, severe abdominal pain, fainting, or trouble breathing
    • A major fall, collision, or other significant injury

    Bladder or bowel changes with groin numbness may indicate pressure on lower spinal nerves and require emergency assessment.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange same-day care if you have fever or feel very unwell, particularly after an infection, operation, or spinal procedure.

    Prompt assessment is also important if you have a weakened immune system or use injected drugs.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if pain has not begun improving after several weeks, keeps returning, worsens, or limits sleep and daily activities.

    Also seek assessment for unexplained weight loss, persistent night pain, or pain after a minor injury if you have osteoporosis or fragile bones.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Back pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.