BACK PAIN

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR BACK PAIN

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

Passed out (fainted)
Very weak (can't stand)

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

You feel weak or very sick
Severe pain
Visible sweat on face, or sweat is dripping down your face
Associated abdominal pain
Weakness of a leg or foot
Tingling or numbness in the legs or feet
Numbness in groin or rectal area
Unable to urinate and your bladder feels very full
Blood in urine
Fever and pain over lower ribs of back (flank)
Vomiting and pain over lower ribs of back
Pain or burning with urination and pain over lower ribs of back
Pain goes into groin or scrotum
Pregnant and pain is not relieved with rest
You have a history of cancer, HIV, or intravenous drug abuse

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If:

You think you need to be seen
Fever
Rash or blisters in same area as pain

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

You have other questions or concerns
Back pain lasts more than 2 weeks
Back pain is a recurrent, ongoing problem
Over 50 years old and you have not experienced similar back pain previously
Back pain lasts more than 3 days and it interferes with normal activities or awakens you from sleep
Pain radiates (shoots, spreads) into the thigh or down a leg

Self Care at Home If

Mild back pain and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

Chest Pain

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