When To Worry About Pain

Worried that your headache or sore tummy could be something more serious? We’ve got your pain explained, from head to toe

- Tanya Pearly

Back pain

IS IT NORMAL?

‘The most common issues with the back are in over 55s, and are a result of wear and tear; sciatica and osteoarthritis are prime examples,’ explains consultant neurosurgeon Bhupal Chitnavis. ‘Usually, back pain is localised, fluctuates in severity, and comes and goes, with episodes lasting a few weeks at most.’ Obesity, smoking and excessive exercise are also common causes.

WHEN IS IT SERIOUS?

‘If a pain lasts longer than six weeks, is getting worse or you have weakness or numbness (and have another condition, like osteoporosis), see your doctor,’ advises Mr Chitnavis. ‘Generally, analgesics and lifestyle changes advised by a specialist can help improve back pain – but it’s key to seek help before it begins to significantly affect your life.’

Learn more from HCA UK’s podcast Health Fact vs Fiction, on Apple or Google podcasts, or Spotify – hcahealthcare. co.uk/podcast

Earache

IS IT NORMAL?

‘Earache, in the form of a sharp or dull pain that is constant or intermittent, is very common,’ says consultant ENT surgeon Professor Antony Narula. ‘The pain is often caused by swelling of the tissues, such as the skin in the outer ear or the eardrum in the middle ear.’ Alternatively, problems in the outer ear could be due to a build-up of wax or water, or by poking objects (like cotton buds) in the ear. ‘Ear pain can also come from dental issues such as impacted wisdom teeth and tonsillitis, so a dental check-up is also worthwhile,’ advises Professor Narula.

WHEN IS IT SERIOUS?