Back pain is an extremely common problem. In fact, nearly 65 million Americans have had a recent episode of back pain. It can range in intensity and affect you in different ways, from being a mild inconvenience to immobilizing you.
One of the tricky things about back pain is determining whether you need to see a doctor and where you should go. Is it bad enough to go to urgent care or the emergency room? Or can it wait for a few days?
Back pain is often not too severe, but there are times when it needs to be addressed as soon as possible. While back pain doesn't always require a trip to urgent care, there are some signs that you should look for 24-hour urgent care near you.
1. Incontinence
Incontinence is the inability to control your bladder or bowel. If you are experiencing back pain and also struggling with toilet functions, the two issues could be linked. It's important to go to urgent care in this circumstance because these symptoms could be a sign of a number of problems, from a ruptured aorta to a chronic illness.
2. Weakness in Your Legs
Any weakness in your legs is a warning sign you should pay attention to when you have back pain. Sudden leg weakness could be a sign of something serious, including sciatica and spinal stenosis. You might also have numbness, tingling, and other symptoms that could be caused by trapped or irritated nerves.
3. Pain in Your Abdomen
Back pain and abdominal pain at the same time could be an indication that you need to go to urgent care. This could be a sign that you're not experiencing localized back pain but could have an issue with one of the several organs in your abdomen. If you have sudden back pain and pain in your abdomen at the same time, there's a chance it could be a severe issue such as an aortic aneurysm, internal bleeding, or even cancer. Watch out for unexplained weight loss too.
4. Being Unable to Move
Some back pain can be annoying but bearable, allowing you to still get on with your usual activities. But sometimes the pain can be debilitating and prevent you from even standing up or walking. If you experience back pain of this kind, going to urgent care is the best idea.
When to Go to the Emergency Room
Sometimes back pain may require you to go to the emergency room. If you experience chest pain, fever, or sudden numbness, the emergency room could be the appropriate place to seek medical care. Kidney stones may also require a trip to the ER.
Urgent care can help you to deal with back pain, especially if it's sudden, accompanied by other symptoms, or makes it hard for you to move.
Get Back Pain Treatment From Your Local Crimson Care in Tuscaloosa, Alabama
If you seek a quick, walk-in primary care or urgent care center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, for you or your child, Crimson Care is what you need. You can trust the experienced physicians at Crimson Care. We are equipped to meet your needs with compassionate and comprehensive services.
Call us today at (205) 270-5285. Feel free to drop in or schedule an appointment online.