In most cases, neck pain is not a sign that you need to see a doctor. With at-home treatments like heating pads or ice packs, you will be able to treat your neck pain on your own. However, if you suffer from certain symptoms, it is a good idea to bring your neck pain and other associated symptoms up with a doctor.

Identify The Cause Of The Pain

First, consider what the cause of the neck pain is. If you have suffered a severe injury like a car wreck or a bad fall and your believe your neck pain is associated with the injury, you should receive treatment immediately. Injuries to the neck can have serious medical consequences.

Take Stock Of How You Feel

Consider how you feel otherwise. If you feel generally unwell, your neck pain might be connected to a larger issue. Also, pay attention to your weight and whether you are experiencing weight loss or weight gain. You may feel a tingling sensation in other parts of the body, which is a sign of more severe medical problems. If you cannot get in to see your doctor soon, you should take a trip to the emergency room. You may notice that your neck bones feel very tender. While tender muscles are common when you experience neck pain, tender bones can be a sign of a more serious issue.

Pay attention to how much your neck hurts. If the pain is getting progressively worse, rather than better, you should see your doctor. Usually, changes in your position can influence how much your neck hurts. However, if nothing you do can reduce your neck pain, this could be a sign that you are suffering from a much more serious condition. Also, if you experience neck spasms alongside neck pain, tell your doctor.

Consider Other Medical Conditions You Have

If you have had a recent medical condition such as cancer, arthritis or if you have been in an accident, the pain you experience might be associated with the condition. You will want to bring this up with your doctor, and he or she might have unique treatments that may be more effective against your neck pain.

Determine Whether The Pain Is Interfering With Your Life

Contact your doctor if you only experience severe neck pain at night and it is preventing you from sleeping. You may find your neck pain to be debilitating and this might prevent you from performing your work. If this is the case, it is essential that you speak with your doctor. If your livelihood is at stake, it is worth finding an effective treatment.

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