How to Recognize the Symptoms of a Spinal Tumor

Spinal tumors, although benign (noncancerous) in some cases, should be taken very seriously. These tumors often interfere with normal physiological functioning. If they spread, they can cause chronic back pain, difficulties in walking and even permanent neurological damage. Recognition of a spinal tumor can be scary and overwhelming for any patient. However, knowing how to spot the symptoms of a spinal tumor can increase the likelihood of proper treatment.

Instructions

Recognize the Symptoms of a Spinal Tumor

• 1

  Look for chronic back pain, which accounts for 80 percent of all spinal tumor occurrences. Such pain persists for several days and continues to get worse.

• 2

  Pay attention to any loss of bowel or bladder control.

• 3

  Take seriously any pain that shoots down the legs.

• 4

  Look for indicators of cancer or tumors elsewhere on the body, such as moles, bumps or lumps anywhere on the skin.

• 5

  Recognize certain risk factors, such as family history of cancer, cigarette smoking, unhealthy diet or excessive exposure to chemicals or radiation.

• 6

  Report any pain that causes lack of sleep.

• 7

  Recognize and report any numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.

• 8

  Acknowledge any loss of appetite or unexpected changes in weight.

• 9

  Seek a complete physical examination to confirm any symptoms that are detected.