What Are Common Herniated Disc Symptoms?

Worsened Pain After Sneezing or Coughing

The majority of patients with herniated discs will have worsened pain after sneezing or coughing. Both coughing and sneezing place stress on the back, and this can lead to increased pain. To reduce this risk, it is important for individuals with herniated discs to also take care of their general health and take steps to prevent coughs and sneezes. For example, patients might wish to take decongestants if they have an upper respiratory infection that causes coughing, and nasal sprays may help reduce the amount of sneezing a patient experiences due to seasonal allergies. If a patient notices a sudden, severe pain that does not subside after a cough or sneeze, they may wish to be examined at an urgent care facility or schedule a same-day appointment with a doctor. Any sudden, severe pain that does not subside could mean the disc has ruptured or additional damage has occurred, and this may need to be corrected promptly.

Keep reading to learn more about spotting a herniated disc now.

Sciatica

Herniated discs frequently result in pain that radiates down the sciatic nerve, a major nerve that extends from the lower back and into the legs. This type of pain is known as sciatica, and it normally only affects one side of the patient's body. To diagnose sciatica, doctors will check the patient's muscle strength, and the reflexes and sensation will also be examined. The patient may be asked to lie on their back and lift each leg individually, and the clinician might ask the patient to walk on their toes or heels. During these movements, the doctor will check the patient for any signs of pain. While most cases of sciatica resolve on their own within a few weeks, surgical interventions are available to help patients who have experienced symptoms for a prolonged period. Anti-inflammatory medicines, anticonvulsants, narcotics, and muscle relaxants may all be recommended to relieve pain. In addition, physical therapy and steroid injections might be beneficial for some individuals.