If you are suffering from unexplained neck pain, you may be wondering just how serious it is. Is it something you can ignore or does it require urgent medical attention? Here, we will look at the symptoms of serious neck pain and help you understand when it’s time to see a doctor.
What Are Common Symptoms of Serious Neck Pain?
Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common and serious signs of neck pain. If your headache is persistent, comes on suddenly, or is accompanied by a fever, then this may be a sign of a more serious condition such as meningitis or a spine injury.
Numbness or Loss of Movement
If your neck pain is accompanied by numbness or a loss of movement in your arms or legs, then this may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. This could be a disc herniation, vertebral subluxation, or even a tumor. If this is the case, then it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Severe Pain
If your neck pain is severe and is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, then this could mean that it is a more serious underlying medical condition. This could be a disc herniation or spinal cord injury, which should be investigated by your physician.
Vision Changes
If your neck pain is accompanied by vision changes, such as double vision, blurriness, or temporary blindness, then this could be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. This could be a tumor on the optic nerve or an injury to the spine, and should be investigated immediately by your physician.
Shooting Pain or Tingling
If you experience shooting pain or tingling in your shoulder, arm, or hand, then this could be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. This could be caused by a herniated disc, pinched nerve, or spinal cord injury. If this is the case, then it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Difficulty Breathing
Difficulty breathing can be a sign of a serious condition, such as a collapsed lung or pneumothorax. If you experience difficulty breathing along with neck pain, then it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
People Also Ask
How Can I Tell If My Neck Pain Is Serious?
If your neck pain is accompanied by headaches, numbness, loss of movement, severe pain, vision changes, shooting pain, or difficulty breathing, then this could be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition. It is important to seek medical attention right away if this is the case.
Can Stress Cause Neck Pain?
Stress is one of the most common causes of neck pain and can lead to both acute and chronic neck pain. Stress can cause the neck muscles to become strained and overworked, leading to pain and tension.
How Can I Relieve Neck Pain?
There are a number of ways to relieve neck pain including stretching, applying heat or ice to the area, getting a massage, and taking over-the-counter pain medications. You can also try practicing relaxation techniques or getting regular exercise.
When Should I See a Doctor For Neck Pain?
If your neck pain is accompanied by headaches, numbness, loss of movement, severe pain, vision changes, shooting pain, or difficulty breathing, then it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Can Neck Pain be a Sign of Cancer?
Neck pain can be a sign of certain types of cancer, particularly cancers of the head and neck. If your neck pain is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss, then it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Final Words
Neck pain can be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of serious neck pain so that you can seek medical attention when it is needed. If your neck pain is accompanied by headaches, numbness, loss of movement, severe pain, vision changes, shooting pain, or difficulty breathing, then it is important to seek medical attention right away.