Connection Between Asthma and Back Pain: Is There a Possibility?
A growing body of research suggests a correlation between asthma and low back pain, a link that could have significant implications for those suffering from both conditions.
According to a 2016 research review, asthma and other respiratory disorders have been found to be associated with low back pain. However, more studies are needed to establish a definitive connection.
The relationship between asthma and back pain can be attributed to the stress placed on muscles used for breathing and spinal support. This extra workload, as explained by Dr. Lev Kalica, owner of New York Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy, may lead to stress on the muscles that help one stand up straight, potentially causing back pain.
Common symptoms of asthma include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and sensitivity to certain triggers like pet dander, dust mites, pollen, mold, smoke, air pollution, etc. If these symptoms are severe, they can indicate a medical emergency. Signs of a medical emergency include being unable to say more than a few words due to shortness of breath, chest muscles straining, inability to walk, lips or fingernails turning blue, and symptoms not improving after using a rescue inhaler.
A doctor can help develop a treatment plan for asthma, which may include allergy shots, anticholinergics, anti-inflammatories, and biologic therapy drugs. For severe back pain, a doctor may prescribe pain medications like muscle relaxants or recommend regular steroid injections.
Home remedies for back pain may include acupuncture, massage, heat/ice therapy, warm baths, oils and ointments, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and Epsom salts in warm baths. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and naproxen can help with back pain, but should be used with caution and under a doctor's guidance.
Research suggests that acupuncture can provide short-term pain relief, while massage can ease muscle tension and inflammation. A 2011 study even suggests that massage could reduce the need for medication.
Home remedies for asthma include learning breathing techniques such as the Buteyko breathing technique, pursed lip breathing, deep diaphragmatic breathing, and the Papworth method.
It is important to see a doctor if experiencing asthma symptoms or if unsure about whether one has asthma. Back pain can have multiple causes, including strain or injury to back muscles or tendons, disc problems, posture problems, overexertion, kidney stones, advancing age, arthritis, and other factors. Possible causes linking asthma and back pain include chronic coughing and bronchial muscle spasms associated with asthma that may strain back muscles, inflammation-related sensitivity affecting adjacent structures, and postural changes due to breathing difficulties; additionally, related allergic conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis that occur with asthma could contribute to pain perception.
A quick-acting medication may also be prescribed for emergencies. For those dealing with both asthma and back pain, addressing the asthma can have a big impact on the back pain.
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