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Back pain symptoms, causes, and effective home remedies for quick relief

Back pain has been one of the most common causes of disabilities across the world. It is believed that most people will experience backache at least once in their lifetime. Thankfully, in most cases, some measures can be taken to fight back pain. If the back pain is mild and is not caused by a severe underlying condition, it can even be treated with the help of some home remedies.

Some of the remedies can even get you back pain relief instantly. Surgery is quite rarely used as a treatment for back pain.

Causes of back pain

The four leading reasons associated with back pain are strain, structural problems with the back, arthritis, and osteoporosis.

Strain
When the muscles are strained, they can cause back pain. The most common causes of strain are the lifting of heavy objects incorrectly and sudden incorrect movements. Over-exerting the muscles can also be one of the reasons that can lead to stress. For example, you might feel some soreness or stiffness in the back after indulging in some sport-related activity for a long duration.
Problems with back structures
Bones, known as vertebrae, interlock and stack upon each other and make the spine. Between every vertebra, there is a space, which is cushioned with disks. When there is any injury caused to these disks, it causes back pain. In some cases, these disks can become herniated, bulged, or ruptured. As a result, a compression can form on the nerves. A herniated disc can cause a tremendous amount of back pain. When there is a disk bulging, it can press the nerve, starting from the back and reaching the leg. This can cause sciatica. Common symptoms of this condition include numbness, tingling sensation, and pain in the leg.
Arthritis
Another cause of back pain can be spinal osteoarthritis. It is often a result of damage and wearing out of the joint cartilage in the lower back. The condition progresses with time and can cause spinal stenosis or narrowing down of the spinal column.
Osteoporosis
A condition identified by bone density loss and bone thinning is referred to as osteoporosis. The condition can cause small fractures in the vertebrae. These fractures, which are known as compression fractures, can result in severe pain.

Other causes

Several other causes can result in back pain. However, they are not common. In case the back pain has become recurrent and does not go away easily, you must see a doctor. Once all the common causes associated with back pain are ruled out, the doctor will then order some tests to check if you are suffering from rare causes. These can include the following:

Degenerative spondylolisthesis, a condition which is identified by the slipping of one vertebral body onto another
Cauda equina syndrome is a severe condition identified by lost nerve functionality in the lower area of the spinal cord
Any infection caused by fungus or bacteria in the spine
Formation of a non-malignant or cancerous tumor in the spine
Kidney stones or any infection in the kidney

Symptoms of back pain

Back pain has various symptoms. These include:

An aching sensation in the back
Pain that feels like shooting or stabbing and can run down the leg or even to the foot
Pain while standing up
Reduced motion and decreasing flexibility in the back

Most symptoms associated with back pain do not last long, especially if it is caused by a strain or a sudden movement. However, in some cases, the pain can stay for several days or even weeks.

When back pain becomes chronic, the symptoms can become recurrent and stay for more than three months.

Symptoms of back pain that indicate a serious underlying problem

If the back pain does not go away within two weeks, you must visit a doctor. This is because the back pain can sometimes indicate a serious underlying condition that needs urgent medical attention. The symptoms that will point towards a serious problem include:

Incontinence or loss of control over bladder or bowel movement
A tingling sensation, a feeling of weakness or numbness in one or even both the legs
Pain that does not go away and becomes severe during night
Loss of weight, which cannot be explained
A throbbing sensation in the abdomen area, which can cause pain
Fever

Treatment for back pain

In many cases, people will not require any extensive measures to get back pain relief. Some painkillers that are available over-the-counter can be enough to treat the pain. However, if the back pain is severe, you might have to consult a doctor who will prescribe some strong medications.

The medications prescribed for back pain usually include NSAIDs, which are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Some examples of these medications include Motrin (ibuprofen) and Aleve (naproxen). You must be careful while taking ibuprofen if you have problems like stomach ulcers or kidney-related issues.

Other over-the-counter options that you may consider include antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and opioids. Make sure not to take any extra dose of over-the-counter medications without checking with your doctor, as these have side-effects.

In rare cases, surgery is recommended to treat back pain. It is generally done in cases where the pain is caused due to structural abnormalities and does not go away with any therapy or medications. Spinal fusion is a type of surgery that is used to give relief from back pain when there is a movement of the spine. The surgery fusion of vertebrae is done into a more solid and single bone, to relieve pain. Another surgery, which can be done to relieve back pain is the one in which the vertebrae and the disks are partially replaced or removed. This is usually done in cases where degenerative bone diseases cause the pain.

In addition to these conventional treatments, you can also consider some alternative treatment methods for back pain. These include:

A massage therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Relaxation techniques
Chiropractic adjustments

However, make sure that you consult your doctor before taking any alternative treatments for back pain.

Home remedies for back pain relief

The causes of back pain can be many. These can vary from conditions like degenerative arthritis or bending incorrectly while picking up something heavy. However, regardless of what causes it, back pain can be extremely discomforting and can even interfere with your daily routine. At times, back pain can be serious. An injury can cause it, and there could be an underlying condition. In such cases, you must consult a doctor without any delays. However, if it is the routine and mild backache, several home remedies can help you effectively in getting back pain relief. Let’s have a look at these remedies here.

Consider cold and heat therapy
This is one of the most effective ways to get back pain relief, and there are studies to back it. If an injury is causing the back pain, directly applying ice packs directly can be extremely beneficial. Wrapping an ice pack and applying it on the back can also help in reducing inflammation. In cases of intense and sudden backaches, ice packs can prove to be helpful by giving a numbing effect. There are cold packs specially designed to provide back pain relief. However, if you don’t have one, you can always use a pack of frozen vegetables. Make sure that the pack is covered in a cloth to prevent frostbites. To get the best results, and to make sure that you are not overdoing it, apply the ice for not more than 20 minutes.

If you are suffering from stiffness in the muscles or muscle ache in the back, heating padding can also help. However, read the instructions carefully before using and check the temperature so that the pad does not overheat. In case you are not able to arrange a heating pad, you can alternatively use a hot bottle. You can also fill a cloth bag of uncooked rice, heat it in a microwave, and apply it on the back.

Work on releasing endorphins
Endorphins are kind of hormones that are released by our body and are extremely helpful in preventing the brain from registering pain signals. With the help of endorphins, you can also reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms related to depression. These are all linked with severe back pain and are known to worsen the pain further. There are several activities that you can indulge in to produce more endorphins in the body. These include massage therapy, meditation, and aerobic exercises.
Do some stretching
Several stretching exercises can help you get back pain relief. Each stretch should be held for 30 seconds, or whatever duration it makes you comfortable. The stretching exercises that you can try include the following:
- - - - Touch your toes: When you bend forward to touch your toes, it not only stretches the hamstrings but also loosens and eases out the lower back muscles.

Child pose: You should start by sitting on your heels with your knees hip-width apart. Now, bend forward and try to reach for the floor with your head. When you do this, your arms should be stretched out and placed right in the front of your head.

Cobra pose: Start by lying down on your stomach and place your hands beside your shoulders with their face down. Now, start lifting your chest to a point where your head is pointing towards the ceiling.

Try to get as much restorative sleep as possible
When you are in pain, it can lead to insomnia, which means you might not get enough quality sleep. Lack of proper sleep can lead to worsening of back pain. Therefore, you might find yourself trapped in a vicious cycle. However, you must know that restorative sleep is essential for body tissues to restore the energy levels and heal. If you are having any problems sleeping, you must identify the causes and talk to your doctor. They will give you medications and even recommend some lifestyle changes to restore your sleep.
Keep the body moving
Our bodies are designed to keep moving. Therefore, to keep it healthy, you must keep it in motion as much as possible. Indulge in daily activities such as making your bed, going to work, walking the dog, etc. When your backache has subsided, you can also get back to your regular exercises such as swimming, walking, cycling, or any other activity that keeps your back and the body in motion. However, when you face back problems, you must make sure that you are not overdoing these activities.
Make your back strong
When you have managed to overcome the back pain, you must do everything to avoid any future episodes. You can do this by strengthening the muscles that provide support to your lower back. Doing this will enable you to maintain the right posture and the correct alignment of the spine. Also, having a strong abdominal, pelvic, and hip muscles can give ample support to your back. However, you must stay away from abdominal crunches since they can worsen the pain.
Try switching to a new pair of shoes
Wearing ill-fitted shoes does not provide your back the necessary support that it needs. This causes strain on the muscles of the neck, back, and legs. For example, when you wear high heels, it can interfere with the body’s alignment and be the cause of pain in the lower back area. A study has established a link between wearing shoes with high heels for long durations and back pain. If the back pain keeps coming reoccurring, you must consider switching your current shoes with a pair of shoes that fit perfectly and provide the necessary support to your feet and back. If you cannot find the right shoes for yourself, you can take help from a foot specialist or a podiatrist.

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An Overview Of Colon Polyps

An overview of colon polyps Colon polyps are small clumps of cells formed on the lining of the colon. The majority of these polyps tend to be harmless, but with time, there are certain polyps that can easily grow into colon cancer. This is a serious condition, especially when found in the later stages. Almost any individual can develop colon polyps. People who are over 50 years of age are at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Even smokers and overweight individuals or people with a family or personal history of colon polyps might be at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Colon polyps – causes are slightly known, but this condition rarely causes any symptoms. Therefore, for individuals who are at risk of developing the condition, it is important to have screening tests on a regular basis. These will include a colonoscopy. Polyps found in the early stages can conveniently be removed. They can be removed completely in a very safe manner. Regular screening is the best step for the prevention of colon polyps. What are the colon polyps – causes? Doctors do not exactly know the causes of colon polyps, but they are of the view that polyps are a result of abnormal tissue growth. The human body develops healthy cells in a periodic manner, thus replacing the old cells that tend to be damaged or are no longer required. The division and growth of these new cells is regulated. However, there are cases when the new cells develop and then divide before they are actually needed. It is this excessive growth that results in polyps. Packaged red meat is also one of the most common colon polyps – causes. Fiber deficiency in the body. High-fat diet taken in excessive amounts. Smoking cigarettes. Obesity is also one of the major colon polyps – causes. Inherited conditions such as Gardener syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome might also put an individual at an increased risk of having colon polyps. What signs and symptoms do colon polyps show? Majority of the individuals suffering from colon polyps do not show any symptoms. They are actually unaware of the fact that they have polyps, because they feel very well. Bleeding from the rectum is one of the most common symptoms of colon polyps. Blood in the stool can also be a sign of colon polyps. Blood might make stool look black, or there can be red streaks in stool. A feeling of tiredness due to anemia and not having sufficient iron in the body are common symptoms. It is the bleeding from the polyps that can result in an iron deficiency and anemia. Several other health issues might also result in these signs. Nevertheless, if rectum bleeding or blood in the stool are everyday phenomena, a consultation with a doctor is vital. How can colon polyps be prevented? Knowing the colon polyps – causes can help prevent the condition. However, there are other important steps that can be followed in trying to prevent this condition. They are as listed: Regular screenings. Lifestyle changes can also be of help in doing away with the colon polyps – causes, and, consequently, prevent them. Adopting healthy habits such as eating fruits, whole grains, and vegetables and reducing fat intake can help in the prevention of colon polyps. Limiting the intake of alcohol and quitting tobacco. Staying active physically and maintaining a healthy body weight is also important. When should one see a doctor? A general physician must be consulted in case of the following: Blood in the stool Abdominal pain Changes in bowel habits for more than a week It is important for one to have a word with their physician regarding their intake of vitamin D and calcium. This is because studies have proved that increasing the intake of food items rich in vitamin D and calcium can help prevent the recurrence of polyps. However, this is not completely clear. It is important to consider all the options, especially if one is at a very high risk of suffering from colon polyps.

The Types Of Colon Polyps And Their Prevention

The types of colon polyps and their prevention Growths that occur on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and usually protrude into the colon are known as colon polyps. They form when the genetic material within the cells that line the colon changes and becomes abnormal. Under normal circumstances, the immature cells that line the colon multiply, mature, and then die in a timely fashion. On the other hand, the genetic changes in the lining cells prevent the cells from maturing, and they don’t die. Resultantly, immature and genetically abnormal cells start accumulating in the colon, eventually resulting in the formation of polyps. This article intends to raise awareness about colon polyps, its types, symptoms, diagnosis, the colon polyps – causes, and more. What are the types of colon polyps? Inflammatory colon polyps : Also known as false polyps, it is mostly found in people who have inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. These polyps are inflammatory manifestations of IBD, are benign, and are unlikely to become cancerous. Adenomatous colon polyps : Also known as adenomas, this type of colon polyps make up about 70% of all polyps found in the colon. They can become cancerous, but the process takes years. Hyperplastic colon polyps : The term hyperplasia means fast growth, which indicates an abnormal increase in the number of cells resulting in the gross enlargement of the colon polyp. Despite the rapid growth, hyperplastic polyps have a low risk of turning cancerous. Villous adenoma : This type of colon polyp has a greater potential of becoming cancerous. It is estimated that approximately 30 percent of villous adenomas develop into a malignancy. These polyps require surgery for the removal of their cauliflower-like protrusions. What are the causes of colon polyps? Experts are not sure about the colon polyps – causes. However, the causes are believed to be a mix of environmental and genetic factors that result in an abnormal tissue growth. What are the known risk factors of colon polyps? Age : The risk of developing colon polyps tends to increase with age. Family history : A close relative with colon cancer or polyps raises the risk. Sex : Men have a slightly higher chance of developing polyps. Race : Black men and women have a higher risk. Alcohol : Alcohol consumption is closely linked to colon cancer risk and is known as one of the colon polyps – causes. Red meat : If not had in moderation, red meat can serve as one of the colon polyps – causes. Having too much red meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer as well. Lack of dietary fiber : A good intake of fiber has many benefits, including colon benefits. It decreases the risk of colon cancer. Smoking : Smoking increases the risk of all types of cancers, and colon polyps or cancer is no exception. Obesity : Obese people are at higher risk of developing colon polyps and cancer. How are colonic polyps diagnosed? The following tests help diagnose colon polyps: Colonoscopy Sigmoidoscopy Barium enema CT colonography Stool test What are the symptoms of colon polyps? Change in stool color Rectal bleeding Iron deficiency Anemia Change in bowel habits Abdominal pain Blood in the stool Fatigue How common are colon polyps? They are very common. They increase in prevalence as people age. If one has colon polyps, they are more likely to develop polyps elsewhere in the colon later. Only a small proportion of polyps cause symptoms or signs, which usually are the result of bleeding from the polyp. How can colon polyps be prevented? Adopt healthy habits : Adopt healthy habits and increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit fat intake, alcohol consumption, and quit tobacco. Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight. Avoid all the estimated colon polyps – causes. Seek advice if at high risk : If there’s a family history of colon polyps or its other risk factors affect one, seeking prompt medical advice and counseling is important. With regular colonoscopies, one can prevent the colon polyps – causes from developing, and hence preventing the colon from developing.

Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors – Prognosis And Life Expectancy

Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors – Prognosis and life expectancy The neuroendocrine system is a complex regulatory mechanism comprised of cells spread throughout several organ systems, including our lungs and digestive system. As they have characteristics of both nerves and endocrine cells, they are called neuroendocrine cells. The nerve cells transmit signals using electrical impulses, whereas endocrine cells make thyroid and insulin-secreting glands. This article intends to discuss the carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor that starts in these cells in detail. What is a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? A carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor starts in the cells of the hormone-producing organs in our body. A carcinoid tumor is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that most commonly arises in the gastrointestinal system, which includes intestines, stomach, and esophagus. Carcinoid tumors account for about 1% to 2% of lung cancers. As carcinoid tumors originate from tissue that produces hormones, the main side effect of the condition is the inappropriate release of various hormones in the bloodstream. Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor can arise in a number of locations categorized into three areas: the foregut, midgut, and hindgut. Lungs and stomach form the foregut area. The midgut comprises of the small intestine, colon, and appendix. The hindgut includes the end of the large bowel, the rectum, and genitourinary tract organs (ovaries and testes). What factors raise a person’s risk of developing a carcinoid tumor? A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 : This hereditary condition increases an individual’s risk of developing tumors in the pituitary gland, pancreas, and parathyroid gland. Age : Age seems to be a major factor that plays an integral role, as children rarely develop carcinoid tumors; the average diagnosis age is 55 to 65 years for this condition. Race and gender : Carcinoid tumors are more common among black people than white people, and black men have a higher risk than black women. White men and women have the same risk levels, and after treatment, women tend to live longer. Other medical conditions : Some medical conditions that damage the stomach and reduce acid production increase the risk of developing a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor. What are the symptoms of a carcinoid tumor? Signs and symptoms of a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor depend on where the tumor develops: Carcinoid tumors in the lungs : The symptoms of a tumor in the lungs are chest pain, wheezing, diarrhea, shortness of breath, skin flushing (redness and a feeling of warmth on the face and neck), weight gain, particularly around the midsection and back, and pink or purple marks on the skin, which look like stretch marks. Carcinoid tumors in the digestive tract : The symptoms, in this case, are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, intestinal blockage, causing an inability to pass stool, rectal bleeding and pain, and skin flushing. What are some effective management tips for the symptoms of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? Facial flushing : Avoid stress and ask your doctor about specific foods that cause facial flushing so that you can avoid them. Diarrhea : Ask your doctor for anti-diarrheal medication. Wheezing : Ask for medication that relaxes muscles in the lungs to make breathing easier. Heart problems : Discuss your heart issues with your doctor so that they can prescribe diuretics, which lower the blood pressure. Carcinoid syndrome : Use octreotide on prescription, which is the most effective medication to treat carcinoid syndrome. What is the prognosis for carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign carcinoid tumors are small and can be removed completely. They don’t come back and don’t spread to other parts of the body. They don’t produce any symptoms as well. Malignant carcinoid tumors are large, and their cells can invade and damage the surrounding tissues and organs. Additionally, malignant cells can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and can even form new tumors in other parts of the body. Lymph nodes, lungs, bone liver, and skin are the common sites for carcinoid metastases. Carcinoid tumors grow slowly in comparison to other cancers, such as lung, colon, pancreas, or liver cancer. Patients with larger malignant carcinoid tumors (with or without metastasis) can survive and have a good quality of life after proper treatment. Adenocarcinoids, a rare form of carcinoid tumors, are more aggressive than the typical malignant carcinoid tumors.

What Are The First Signs Of Liver Damage

Liver damage – What are the first signs? On the right side of the abdomen, below your rib cage, is an organ called the liver. It is the size of a football and is one of the most important organs in the human body. The liver aids in the digestion of the food we eat and also helps in flushing out the toxins from our body. When there is any kind of disturbance in the normal liver functioning, then it can cause a significant damage to the human body. Once you start exhibiting the signs of liver damage, it is important to get the exact diagnosis and take the next steps accordingly. What are the causes of liver damage? There can be a number of causes for liver damage: Liver infection is one of the most common causes of liver damage. Viruses and parasites can cause infections that affect the normal functioning of the liver. Hepatitis is the most common liver infection, which includes Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Some diseases will affect your immune system thereby damaging your liver too. This is called autoimmune hepatitis. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis are of the same kind. If you have inherited an abnormal gene from any of your parents or family members, it can lead to a build up of various substances in the body and hence can damage the liver. Build up of liver cancer can be a cause. A person who is an alcohol addict is more prone to liver damage. What are the first signs of liver damage? There can be several signs of a liver damage. Here are 10 signs of liver damage that you need to pay attention to: Your eyes and skin turning yellow, which is usually a sign of jaundice. Abdominal swelling and pain are also symptoms of liver damage that you should watch out. Your ankles and legs begin to swell.. Your urine becomes dark yellow in color. There can be many reasons for dark yellow urine, but it can also be a sign of liver damage. Excessively itchy skin is also a symptom of liver damage. Loss of appetite. Getting bruises easily as your liver fails to create proteins needed for blood clotting. Vomiting and nausea for no reason. Blood in the stool or pale stool. Chronic fatigue. How is liver damage diagnosed? In order to get started with the liver damage treatment, it is very important to diagnose the symptoms of liver damage correctly. In order to start the diagnoses, your doctor will start with a physical examination, followed by requesting details of your health history. Liver function tests, which are blood tests will be done at the initial stage. MRI Scan and CT scan kind of image tests are done. Tissue analysis is also done to get an accurate idea of the problem . How is liver damage treated? The treatment for the liver damage depends on the type and severity of damage. Some stages can be treated with just slight modifications to the diet and lifestyle like weight reduction, no smoking or alcohol. Further stages will require medication and severe condition will need a surgery. If your liver has failed completely, then you will have to go for a liver transplant, which is an expensive and time consuming process. How can liver damage be prevented? Certain changes in your lifestyle can prevent liver damage. You need to stop drinking alcohol or only drink a moderate amount to decrease pressure on your liver. Get vaccinated to prevent getting hepatitis infections. When you are spraying insecticides or other aerosol sprays, make sure that you cover your nose and also make sure to protect your skin. You need to maintain a healthy weight as there are chances of fatty liver damage as well. You should take only medicine that is prescribed to you and make sure that you do not take any medicine in excess or without talking to your doctor.