What Are Common Herniated Disc Symptoms?

Worsened Pain After Sneezing or Coughing

The majority of patients with herniated discs will have worsened pain after sneezing or coughing. Both coughing and sneezing place stress on the back, and this can lead to increased pain. To reduce this risk, it is important for individuals with herniated discs to also take care of their general health and take steps to prevent coughs and sneezes. For example, patients might wish to take decongestants if they have an upper respiratory infection that causes coughing, and nasal sprays may help reduce the amount of sneezing a patient experiences due to seasonal allergies. If a patient notices a sudden, severe pain that does not subside after a cough or sneeze, they may wish to be examined at an urgent care facility or schedule a same-day appointment with a doctor. Any sudden, severe pain that does not subside could mean the disc has ruptured or additional damage has occurred, and this may need to be corrected promptly.

Keep reading to learn more about spotting a herniated disc now.