In continuation of the previous episodes on “Beat the backache”, in this issue, the modern research that is exploring various other causes, particularly after the COVID-19 epidemic, is being discussed.
Blood clots in blood vessels can cause back pain, often severe, especially if the clot forms in the inferior vena cava (IVC) or blocks blood flow to the spinal cord (spinal stroke), presenting as deep pain, weakness, or radiating pain, but it’s a serious sign demanding immediate medical attention as it can mimic muscle pain or disc issues but can be life-threatening.
The blood clots are part of the normal functioning of our bodies. Our blood clots to help prevent too much blood from being released after we receive a cut. After an injury occurs to blood vessels say while washing a sharp knife, the platelets in the blood get to work. These tiny parts of blood start sticking to the walls of the blood vessel and to each other. This process then forms a seal to stop the blood from continuing to pour out. The damaged tissue will begin to heal, and the clot dissolves back into the bloodstream. However, a clot can fail to disperse and continue to grow, which can lead to some extreme health concerns.
Blood clots can develop in any blood vessel in the body. If a clot breaks free and starts to travel through the body, it can get to vital organs, such as the lungs, brain, or heart. When this occurs, a heart attack or stroke can happen. Blood clots can also cause a pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and kidney failure, which are all medical emergencies.
Nevertheless, blood clots can affect a vast majority of the population in various ways; there are measures to prevent blood clots. Those who are using birth control pills or are currently going through hormone therapy, are considered overweight or obese, smokers, diabetes patients, senior citizens over the age of 60, post orthopaedic surgery, who are bedridden for long time or live an inactive lifestyle, have been travelling for an extensive time via train, car bus or flight and unable to stretch also who have specific blood disorders that prone to blood and persons suffering from malignancies are at a higher risk of having a blood clots.
Potential Symptoms
For these reasons and more, it’s important to be aware of any potential symptoms that could be a sign of a blood clot so as to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Though back pain is a common condition, it can also be a sign of a much larger and more serious problem affecting the health. Blood clots can be a source of back pain and can be life-threatening.
Here these four symptoms that one should be aware of to help safeguard against a more substantial problem from occurring. If any of these warning indications persist longer than a few days or so, one should seek medical assistance.
The appearance of recurring and severe back pain, especially in the lower back, can be a symptom of a potential blood clot. A feeling of a similar type of pain dispersing from the back to the chest is a serious warning sign. If the pain is persistent for a long time despite using painkillers and pain-relieving ointments, oils, and sprays, one should consult a medical expert.
Secondly, the pain that spreads from the lower back to the legs while extending to the front of the thigh and legs must seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms such as swelling, redness, and skin feeling warm to the touch are all signs of a potential blood clot. Blood clots in the legs are typically associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This is generally the result of inadequate circulation, or injury or a side effect of medication or a complication after surgery.
Thirdly, a pain that might start as a simple irritation but then evolves into stabbing and shooting feelings throughout the lower back or side should be addressed as quickly as possible. If the pain is sharp instead of a dull ache, and the pain spreads from the back to the lower extremities and pelvic area or legs. should be attended to instantly. Back pain is also common with blood clots in the lungs, such as a pulmonary embolism, which will often get worse with extensive coughing and when taking deep breaths. The back pain from these types of embolisms can extend to the upper, middle, and lower parts of the back and both sides.
The fourth type is when there are issues in manoeuvring back into different positions or standing up straight; it can indicate that something more serious is at work. As the clot moves throughout the body, it affects in a variety of ways, as previously explained. Pain, swelling, warmth in body parts, and skin discoloration can all be signs of a more significant issue.
Myofascial pain syndrome and Herniated disk, sciatica, and several other causes, treatment at home, palliative care, medical and surgical interventions will be discussed in the upcoming issue. (To be concluded).
