Everyone at some point in time may experience some type of ache or pain whether it be from sleeping the wrong way or having poor posture which can cause some tension or aching in the neck.
There are some things that you can do to help alleviate that temporary ache like getting a good night’s rest or even making simple changes in your lifestyle.
However, not every ache or pain may be temporary or something that just goes away overnight. Pain in the neck could be signs of serious medical trouble and may need to be evaluated by a physician sooner rather than later.
When To Call The Doctor
If you suffer from neck pain and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be in need of immediate medical attention and could potentially need to call 9-1-1:
- Chest Pains
- Vomiting/Nausea
- Trouble Breathing
- Inability to Move Part of Your Body
- Loss of Control of Bowels/Bladder
The above symptoms coupled with neck pain could be signs of a heart attack or injury to the spine. If tingling in the arms and legs surfaces or even numbness and trouble walking, seeking medical care in the Emergency Room is highly recommended.
Although all neck pain may not be life threatening, it still may need to be addressed in a timely manner. Making an appointment at the Atlanta Spine Center may be the first step in the right direction in determining what is causing your pain.
Anyone suffering from chronic neck pain should be evaluated by a physician who specializes in the spine to determine if your condition is any of the following:
- Herniated Discs
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Whiplash (After an Accident)
- Spinal Stenosis
With minor aches and pains in the neck, medications like Tylenol are often the first course of action. If the neck pain is caused by a more serious condition, the pain may increase over time resulting in the need for stronger medication or treatment.
Where To Seek Help
If something doesn’t seem right, it’s always best to trust your instincts and seek medical attention especially if the pain is severe and other symptoms may be present. If the pain is manageable, try some minor lifestyle changes like adding certain stretches in or sleeping in a different position or even drinking more water to see if that decreases the pain. If the pain still remains, reach out to a doctor for further advice.
If you’re neck pain begins to concern you, contact our team of Atlanta orthopedic doctors at the Atlanta spine center for a consultation. Call today at (404) 855-2141.
