NHS says 'call 999' if you get 'tingling' sensation in two areas
The NHS has issued a warning that if you experience 'tingling', particularly in two specific areas, it could be time to dial 999
The NHS warns that if you experience 'tingling', particularly in two specific areas, it could be time to dial 999. In their guidance about back pain, they warn that this discomfort - combined with a tingling sensation - could be a sign of a serious condition.
Back pain is frequently triggered by injuries such as muscle strains or medical conditions like slipped discs, sciatica (a trapped nerve), or ankylosing spondylitis. Whilst back pain is commonplace and often clears up on its own, in rare cases it can indicate "sign of a serious problem such as a broken bone, cancer or an infection", according to the health service.
If your back pain continues, your first step should be contacting your GP, particularly if the pain is getting worse and disrupting your daily routine, reports Bristol Live. It's also crucial to assess how severe your pain is.
What is classed as severe pain?
What the NHS mean by severe pain:.
Severe pain:
- always there and so bad it's hard to think or talk you cannot sleep
- it's very hard to move, get out of bed, go to the bathroom, wash or dress
Moderate pain:
- always there
- makes it hard to concentrate or sleep
- you can manage to get up, wash or dress
Mild pain:
- comes and goes
- is annoying but does not stop you doing daily activities
Can I call 111 for back pain?
You should call 111 or ask for an urgent GP appointment if you have back pain and:
- a high temperature
- you've lost weight without trying to
- there's a lump or swelling in your back or your back has changed shape
- the pain does not improve after resting or is worse at night
- the pain is made worse when sneezing, coughing or pooing
- the pain is coming from the top of your back (between your shoulders), rather than your lower back
Should I call 999 for my back pain?
You should call 999 or visit A&E if you have back pain and:
- pain, tingling, weakness or numbness in both legs
- numbness or tingling around your genitals or buttocks
- difficulty peeing
- loss of bladder or bowel control (peeing or pooing yourself)
- chest pain
- it started after a serious accident, such as a car accident
The NHS warns that you should not drive to A&E. Instead, you should ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
NHS back pain warning
The NHS suggests trying anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen, but notes that "paracetamol on its own is not recommended for back pain but it may be used with another painkiller."
To ease discomfort, you can apply a heat or ice pack, which can be made by wrapping frozen peas in a tea towel or using a hot water bottle. They also advise exercises and stretches for back pain. Despite the urge to stay in bed, the NHS cautions against extended bed rest.
What exercises and stretches can I do to help my back pain?
There are numerous exercises to assist with back pain which you can view on the NHS inform website. For instance, one exercise detailed requires you to lie down on your bed.
"Rolling the knees from one side and to the other is one repetition", the NHS explains.
You should:
- Begin lying down with your knees pointing towards the ceiling.
- Slowly roll your knees to the right.
- Hold for a few seconds and then raise the knees so that they are pointing towards the ceiling again.
- Repeat on the opposite side