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5 Signs Your Upper Back Pain is Serious

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    Backaches can be inconvenient or incapacitate you for days. Here's how to know if your upper back discomfort is minor or serious.

    Do you slouch a lot? Poor posture is the most common cause of upper back discomfort. Sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time shortens the chest muscles and strains the upper back muscles. As a result, many people experience muscle spasms between their shoulder blades. Everyday habits might also contribute to back pain.

    Strain in the muscles around the neck and shoulders, or between the shoulder blades, can be caused by a variety of factors in addition to poor posture. Stress, vigorous activity, and sleeping with your neck in an unusual posture are among the most common causes.

    A typical muscular strain episode usually only lasts a few days. It's critical to stay as comfortable as possible throughout this period. Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help.

    You can't always assume that discomfort isn't a major issue. If your discomfort lasts longer than a few days or requires regular pain medication, you should see your doctor. Another symptom is if the pain interferes with your day-to-day activities, such as forcing you to miss work in order to stay in bed. The indicators listed below indicate that you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

    The Pain Doesn’t Seem to Go Away 

    You've tried home remedies, gotten massages, and possibly even purchased a new mattress. If your upper back pain persists, it could be a symptom of a lung tumor, which is extremely rare. Advanced lung cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, can cause bone pain. Lung cancer can also cause weight loss, chest pain, and weakness. Consult your doctor if your back discomfort persists and keeps you awake at night.

    You Were in a Car Accident 

    You may elect not to see a doctor if you are able to walk away from a rear-end collision and feel fine. Whiplash, on the other hand, is a forceful back-and-forth motion of the head that can tear and inflame the muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back. If you suspect whiplash, see your doctor right away, especially if you're experiencing other symptoms like exhaustion, dizziness, or neck pain.

    You Experience Pain in The Side 

    Anyone who has ever had a kidney stone knows how painful they can be, and they can also cause upper back pain. However, this is unlikely to be the only sign of a kidney stone. You may also experience significant discomfort below your ribs on your side and back. 

    Other indicators include discomfort while peeing or urine that is red or brown in color. What is the best piece of advice? It's a good idea to see a doctor if your discomfort is severe and chronic. Do you have soreness under your shoulder blade on your right side? You should consult your doctor if you think you have a gallbladder problem.

    You’re Fatigued

    The notion of a heart attack victim holding their chest and collapsing has been debunked for a long time. It's important to pay attention to the less obvious symptoms of a heart attack, such as nausea, shortness of breath, excessive exhaustion, and back discomfort.

    Pain Intensifies When You Move 

    You fell recently, but you didn't expect your back to hurt so much! You can shatter a spinal bone or a rib if you have a back injury, such as when a large object falls on your back or you slip on the ice and fall with your back striking the edge of a step. The pain can range from mild to severe, and it will worsen if you move. Speak with your doctor, especially if you've had a serious injury.