Did you know that roughly 65 million Americans have reported a recent experience with back pain? Unfortunately, back conditions range from severe to mildly annoying. So how do you know when to see a doctor?
The key is to pay attention to your symptoms. Some suffer upper back pain when breathing deeply, while others suffer lower or middle back pain. In either case, if you experience back pain when breathing, then it may be a sign of a more serious condition.
Let’s learn more about this symptom so you know what to ask your doctor when you visit them.
Chronic or Acute Pain?
The first thing you need to determine is whether your back pain is chronic or acute. This will help you hone in on the exact condition affecting you.
Acute conditions happen suddenly and the symptoms are severe — think of things like a back injury.
Chronic conditions, on the other hand, happen over long periods. The pain may not be as intense as acute conditions, but it lasts much longer.
Keep in mind that many acute conditions can develop into chronic conditions if they aren’t treated properly.
What Are Some of The Conditions That Cause Back Pain When Breathing?
The most common cause of back pain when breathing is overexertion and physical trauma. This trauma will usually occur around the ribs and intercostal muscles. Since these muscles and bones protect the lungs, damage can cause pain while breathing.
Usually, this pain goes away in a couple of days and heals within 6 to 8 weeks. However, it’s important to ice and heat your back, and avoid physical exertion during the recovery time.
If the pain doesn’t go away, then it may be a sign of a more serious medical condition. In this case, you should visit your doctor. Ask your general practitioner about some of these common causes:
- Thoracic kyphosis
- Obesity
- Lung cancer
- Scoliosis
- Pneumonia
- Allergies
- Rib fracture
- Pulmonary embolism
- Pleurisy
When Should You See A Doctor?
If you are involved in an accident, then, you should seek medical attention immediately. However, what about more gradual back pain? If your pain levels don’t subside within a couple of weeks, then you should visit the doctor.
Difficulty breathing is a more serious condition because it can be an indication of a heart attack or lung cancer.
Early detection is key to beating these conditions, so you should waste no time getting checked out. Remember it’s better to be safe than sorry when dealing with back and lung conditions.
Do You Need Help Dealing With Your Workplace Injuries? Call Workers Comp Doctor
Do you experience back pain when breathing after a workplace accident? You’re not alone. The National Safety Council estimates that someone hurts themselves on the job roughly every seven seconds.
If you hurt your back on the job, then you must report your injury to your employer quickly and properly. Otherwise, your company might be able to avoid giving you the proper worker’s compensation.
We are here to help you guide you through this confusing process.
Call (888) 590-4030 to find an experienced doctor who can help you heal your back pain and help you get back to living your life!
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