Ever let out a hearty cough, only to be met with a jolt of pain in your lower back? You’re not alone. This experience can be surprisingly common, leaving you wondering why does my back hurt when I cough. While a cough itself might seem harmless, it can sometimes trigger underlying back issues or cause temporary strain.
Let’s delve into the reasons behind this connection and explore solutions to ease the discomfort.
Why Does My Back Hurt When I Cough? Exploring the Reasons
1. Disk Herniation
Disk herniation occurs when the protective disks between the spinal bones slip out of place or protrude. These disks act as shock absorbers for the spine, and when they herniate, they can cause significant pain.
Symptoms and Effects
A herniated disk can lead to tingling and numbness in the lower back and legs. In severe cases, it can cause incontinence of the bowel or bladder. A 2016 study found that people with severe sciatica often have disk herniation, particularly if their leg pain worsens when coughing.
Treatment Options
- Resting the back
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Ice packs – Apply a cloth-covered ice pack for 10 minutes several times a day.
- Surgery – In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the herniated disk.
2. Muscle Strain or Ligament Sprain
Intense or sudden coughing can put pressure on the back, leading to muscle strain or a pulled muscle. This can cause pain that intensifies with certain positions or activities, including coughing. Symptoms include back stiffness, muscle spasms, and muscle tenderness.
Treatment Options
- Resting the back for a day or two
- NSAIDs
- Avoiding postures that worsen the pain
- Ice packs – Apply to the affected area to reduce pain and inflammation.
If symptoms persist beyond 6-8 weeks, it’s advisable to see a doctor.
3. Spinal Stenosis
As people age, the spinal column can narrow, putting pressure on the spinal nerves. This condition, known as spinal stenosis, can cause lower back pain, especially in certain positions.
Symptoms
- Numbness or cramping pain in the lower back and legs
- Problems with bowel or bladder function
- In severe cases, loss of leg function
Treatment Options
- Exercise – Build up the muscles in the back to support and strengthen them.
- NSAIDs or prescription medications – To relieve muscle spasms.
- Steroid injections
- Surgery – In severe cases, to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
4. Rare Causes: Lung Cancer
Symptoms
Although rare, lung cancer can cause lower back pain when coughing if the cancer has spread to the spine. Additional symptoms include:
- Coughing up blood
- Unexpected weight loss
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
Treatment Options
- Radiation and chemotherapy – To shrink the tumor.
- Surgery – To remove the tumor.
Solutions for a Pain-Free Cough
If you’re experiencing lower back pain when you cough, there are steps you can take to find relief:
1. Home Remedies
Apply heat or ice packs to the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also help manage discomfort. Gentle stretches and low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension.
2. Supportive Measures
Invest in a supportive mattress and chair to maintain good posture, which can minimize stress on your back. Practice proper coughing technique by engaging your core muscles to support your spine.
3. Seeking Professional Help
If home remedies don’t improve your symptoms, or if you experience concerning signs like weakness, numbness, or fever, consult a doctor. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include physical therapy, medication, or even surgery in severe cases.
Lower back pain when coughing can be more than a minor inconvenience. It may indicate underlying health conditions like disk herniation, muscle strain, spinal stenosis, or even lung cancer. By understanding why does my back hurt when I cough and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can address the root causes and find relief. With various home remedies and medical treatments available, relief is within reach.
By understanding why your back hurts when you cough and taking appropriate steps, you can manage your symptoms effectively and maintain your overall well-being.