Practically everyone inevitably deals with back pain throughout their life. However, just a small portion of people will require extensive medical treatment. Because of this, it's crucial to distinguish between a minor muscle strain and serious conditions like a vertebral fracture or spinal stenosis. Generally speaking, you shouldn't disregard your back pain. Get a medical opinion to speed your recovery and rule out any other dangerous disorders.

There are a few telltale signs that your pain condition might not be a common issue that you can handle on your own. See your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of the symptoms listed below.

1. Fever

Back pain that occurs together with fever can result from infection. Fever and back pain are typical signs of illnesses like the common cold or flu, but they can also be signs of more serious conditions like pyelonephritis (kidney infection) or osteomyelitis (spinal column infection).

2. Injury

A major accident, such as a fall from a great height or a vehicle crash, almost always necessitates medical treatment. Even if your back has only sustained minor injuries, if you are 50 or older, you should see a doctor. Your doctor can do x-rays to look for fractures as well as a full physical exam on the rest of your back.

3. Loss of sensation

Nerve damage symptoms such as loss of sensation and pins and needles warrant urgent care. A bulging disc pressing on a nerve might be the cause of these symptoms  In rare cases, a permanent impairment may develop if the condition is not treated quickly.

4. Prior history of cancer

If you've ever been diagnosed with cancer, you should always inform your doctor of any back pain you're experiencing. Your doctor will most likely order an infection test if you have been using immune suppressants. They may also warrant an MRI to check for the presence of a tumor or fracture. If there is a tumor, you can be recommended to undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy to prevent its growth and kill cancer cells.

5. Incontinence

Many people may have leakage on occasion. If you suffer back pain and lack bladder or bowel control, you may have cauda equina syndrome. This serious disease results from the lower end of your spinal cord becoming severely damaged, leading to partial paralysis. These symptoms may also be caused by the presence of a tumor, fracture, spinal stenosis, or disc herniation.

6. Recurring or persistent pain

It is critical that you contact a doctor right away if your back pain persists after six weeks. An examination by a doctor could help pinpoint the underlying reason, as many back conditions can result in persistent pain that lasts this long. After you have a correct diagnosis, you may talk about your best course of action.

7. Nocturnal back pain

If your back pain gets worse at night, you should see a doctor. This might be a sign of a tumor, degenerative disc, or sprained muscle. Your doctor can run the necessary tests to identify the source of your nighttime discomfort and can also suggest treatments to speed up your recovery and improve your sleep.

8. Foot drop

Your toes dragging when you walk might be an indication of damaged nerves in your spine. Your doctor should be able to pinpoint the culprit behind the foot drop. It might also be brought on by muscle or brain issues.

9. Sudden weight loss

A sudden, severe reduction in body weight that is followed by pain in your back is a serious cause for concern. Unexpected weight loss is frequently a symptom of cancer growth. If there is a tumor in your spine, it has to be addressed right away.