More than 65 million U.S. adults suffer from back pain, and 80% of people will experience back pain in their lives. However, the connection to cancer rates is still frequently overlooked.
Back pain is so common, it’s often ignored as an early cancer symptom. It’s not just severe pain, either. Even minor back pain could indicate cancer.
Here’s more on the relationship between back pain and cancer.
Back Pain Symptoms to Watch
Back pain is frequently brushed off as typical “growing pains.” That’s why you have to analyze back pain carefully for clues.
If back pain isn’t connected to an activity, like sports or work, that’s an immediate cause for concern. That could signal the start of a tumor or spinal cancer.
Another sign is back pain that continues long after physical therapy or treatment. This could indicate something far more severe.
The next subtle sign to watch is timing. Back pain that appears at the start and end of the day, but not throughout the day, could also be a sign of cancer.
Back pain, coupled with rapid weight loss, is another possible sign of cancer. This may also coincide with bloody urine or bowel movements.
The combination of back pain and fatigue is also a cause for concern, as well as tingling in the hands, feet, and legs.
Don’t let minor pains and discomfort fool you. These are significant symptoms to discuss with your doctor.
Which Cancers Cause Back Pain?
With over 100 different types of cancers today, which cause back pain?
The more obvious culprits are cancers related to the spine. Spinal tumors lead to bone mestasis, which leads to back pain.
Spinal cancer can spread quickly without immediate medical intervention early on. Furthermore, up to 70% of all cancers can spread to the spine, leading to severe back pain.
Then there are the cancers that are a little less obvious, like lung cancer. Not only can lung cancer spread throughout the spine, but lung tumors themselves can put pressure on the spine, which leads to back pain.
Individuals with undiagnosed lung cancer may also experience fatigue and bloody stools, in addition to moderate back pain.
Back pain is also a symptom of breast cancer. However, this symptom frequently flies under the radar. Like spinal cancer, breast cancer spreads quickly, putting pressure on the spinal cord.
Many people dismiss back pain as a symptom of gastrointestinal cancers. However, tumors in the rectum, colon, and stomach typically lead to lower back pain, also known as lumbago.
Don’t Ignore The Connection Between Back Pain and Cancer
It’s easy to ignore minor back pain, but you may be putting your health on the line. Don’t ignore the relationship between back pain and cancer.
These are more than simple aches and pains. See a doctor right away at the first sign of back pain.
Are you ready to take action? Knowledge is essential for prevention. Understand the signs before it’s too late. Stay up to date on the latest health tips for a longer, healthier life.