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When to See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you have back pain or tenderness?
See significance of back pain or tenderness if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
| Note: |
The following questions apply whether you have had a recent injury, do not remember being injured, or have a history of back pain. |
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Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
- Yes
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Do you have severe pain?
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Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
- Yes
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Do you have moderate pain?
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You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
- Yes
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Have you had mild pain for longer than 48 hours after an injury?
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You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
- Yes
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Do you have chronic back problems that are slowly getting worse?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
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| Last updated: | August 28, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Reviewed By: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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