Back pain is a common ailment that plagues people all over the world. In some cases, it can be so severe that it warrants admission to a hospital. If you are experiencing back pain and would like to know how to get admitted to the hospital for back pain, read on for a complete guide.
How To Get Admitted To The Hospital For Back Pain
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What Causes Back Pain?
There are many different causes of back pain, which can make it a difficult condition to diagnose and treat. However, some of the most common causes include:
- Muscle or ligament strain: This is often caused by lifting something heavy or suddenly changing position.
- Arthritis: This degenerative condition can cause pain and stiffness in the back.
- Disk herniation: This occurs when the discs that cushion the vertebrae become damaged or ruptured.
- Facet joint syndrome: This is a condition in which the joints that connect the vertebrae become inflamed.
What Are The Symptoms Of Back Pain?
The symptoms of back pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain that radiates from the lower back to the legs
- Stiffness or limited mobility in the back
- Muscle spasms
- Numbness or tingling in the legs
When Should You See A Doctor For Back Pain?
Most instances of back pain will resolve on their own within a few days or weeks. However, you should see a doctor if your pain:
- Is severe
- Persists for more than a week
- Is accompanied by other symptoms, such as numbness or tingling in the legs
How Is Back Pain Diagnosed?
Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as an MRI, to get a better look at the structures in your back.
Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor will develop a treatment plan that may include:
- Pain medication
- Muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy
- Epidural injections
- Surgery (in rare cases)
How To Get Admitted To The Hospital
To be admitted to the hospital for back pain, you will need to go through a few steps. First, you will need to consult with your primary care physician. They will then refer you to a specialist, who will likely recommend that you get an MRI. If the MRI shows that you have a serious problem, such as a herniated disc, then you will be admitted to the hospital. If your MRI does not show anything serious, then you may be treated on an outpatient basis. Treatment for back pain typically includes a combination of medication, physical therapy, and exercise. Surgery is only rarely needed.
If you are having severe back pain, then you should go to the emergency room. The emergency room doctor will likely order an MRI, and if they find something serious, they will admit you to the hospital. If your pain is not severe, then you can schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. They will likely refer you to a specialist, who may recommend an MRI. If the MRI does not show anything serious, then you may be treated on an outpatient basis. Treatment for back pain typically includes a combination of medication, physical therapy, and exercise. Surgery is only rarely needed.
What Will Happen If You Left Back Pain Untreated?
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If you left your back pain untreated, it could lead to more serious problems. For instance, you might develop:
- Ankylosing spondylitis: This is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine.
- Compression fractures: These occur when the vertebrae collapse due to pressure on them. This can be very painful and may require surgery to fix.
- Degenerative disc disease: This is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae start to deteriorate. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Osteoarthritis: This is a form of arthritis that affects the joints. It can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling.
If you have any of these conditions, it’s important to see a doctor right away. untreated back pain can make these conditions worse and lead to more serious problems.
Additional Tips When Getting Admitted to the Hospital for Back Pain
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- You will likely need to provide a detailed medical history to the admitting staff. This will help them determine the best course of treatment for you.
- Be sure to let the staff know if you have any allergies or other medical conditions that could complicate your stay.
- You may be asked to undergo a physical examination upon arrival. This is to help the staff get a better understanding of your condition.
- You will likely be given a series of tests to help diagnose the cause of your back pain. These may include X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
- Once you have been diagnosed, you will be treated according to the severity of your condition. Treatment may include pain medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
- Be sure to follow all discharge instructions when you are ready to leave the hospital. This will help ensure a successful recovery at home.
Final Thoughts
Getting admitted to the hospital can be a daunting task, especially if you are in severe pain. However, by following the tips outlined in this article, you can make the process go as smoothly as possible. Remember to be honest with your doctor about your pain levels, and be prepared to undergo some testing before being admitted. With some patience and perseverance, you will get the care you need to start feeling better.
I am John Crosby, the founder and author of back backpaincareguides.com. I have been dealing with chronic back pain for almost eight years and have made it my mission to help people who are also suffering from this debilitating condition through my blog. I want to share my knowledge and experience about this condition so that others can find relief from their back pain. I believe that by being open and honest about my struggles, I can inspire others to live better and more fulfilling life.