Left Back Pain: When to See a Doctor and Which Specialist? - Internal Medicine

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Left back pain can be a concerning symptom, especially when it affects your ability to breathe comfortably. Given your description, it is essential to approach this issue with caution and seek medical advice. Here’s a comprehensive understanding of your situation and recommendations on when to see a doctor and which specialist to consult.


Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Location and Nature of Pain: You mentioned that the pain is located in the middle of your left back and that it worsens when you straighten your body. This could indicate a musculoskeletal issue, such as muscle strain or tension, particularly if you have engaged in activities that may have overexerted your back muscles.

2. Breathing Difficulty: The fact that deep breathing exacerbates your pain is noteworthy. While it could be related to muscle strain, it may also suggest involvement of the thoracic spine or even the ribs. In some cases, pain that worsens with breathing can be associated with conditions affecting the lungs or pleura (the lining around the lungs), such as pleuritis or pneumonia, although these are less common.

3. Duration and Changes: Since you mentioned that you have not experienced this type of pain before, it is crucial to consider whether this is an acute issue or part of a chronic condition. If the pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention.


When to See a Doctor
You should consider seeing a doctor if:
- The pain persists for more than a few days without improvement.

- You experience significant difficulty breathing or chest pain.

- You have other symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel or bladder function.

- The pain radiates to other areas, such as your arms or legs, or is accompanied by numbness or tingling.


Which Specialist to Consult
1. Primary Care Physician: Your first step should be to consult your primary care physician. They can perform an initial evaluation, take a detailed history, and conduct a physical examination. Based on their findings, they may refer you to a specialist.

2. Orthopedic Specialist: If your primary care physician suspects a musculoskeletal issue, they may refer you to an orthopedic specialist. Orthopedic doctors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including back pain.

3. Neurologist: If there are signs of nerve involvement, such as radiating pain or neurological symptoms, a neurologist may be consulted to evaluate for conditions affecting the nerves.

4. Pulmonologist: If your doctor suspects that your breathing difficulties are related to a respiratory issue, they may refer you to a pulmonologist, who specializes in lung-related conditions.

5. Physical Therapist: Regardless of the specialist you see, physical therapy can be an effective treatment for back pain. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen your back and improve flexibility, which may alleviate your symptoms.


Conclusion
In summary, while left back pain can often be attributed to muscle strain or tension, the associated breathing difficulty warrants a thorough evaluation. It is advisable to see your primary care physician first, who can guide you to the appropriate specialist based on their assessment. Early intervention is key to managing pain and preventing potential complications, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Remember, your health is paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly can lead to better outcomes.