9 Types of Referred Pain That Could Be Dangerous If You Ignore Them

Oct 10, 2018 by apost team

Referred pain is a term used to describe pain or discomfort located in areas of the body other than where a health problem exists. It is often tricky when experiencing referred pain to identify the underlying cause of the pain.

In many instances, referred pain can indicate serious medical issues. This makes an early diagnosis of a medical problem essential. The following is nine types of referred pain, and their sources, with which you should become familiar.

Heart

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Like most people, you would probably associate any pain that is present on the left side of the chest with the heart. However, many people are unaware that pain in the left hand or middle of the back can also mean indicate a potential problem with the heart.

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Lungs

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A dull pain in the neck and shoulders on a consistent basis could mean there is a problem with the lungs or diaphragm. The pain could be a result of a problem with the breathing of the individual.

There could also be a problem with the phrenic nerve that starts at the spine, goes through the lungs, and ends t the diaphragm.

Liver And Gallbladder

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This type of referral pain is particularly difficult to identify. This is because the pain caused by the liver and gallbladder can often manifest in the shoulder and neck area.

Individuals suffering from this type of referral pain often attribute the pain to not getting enough exercise or sending too much time in front of a computer screen.

Stomach and pancreas

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Problems with the pancreas are, for the most part, not difficult to discern. However, about half the individuals that suffer from acute pancreatitis also experience pain in the back.

Small intestine

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Problems with the small intestine can show themselves by way of a sharp pain in the abdomen. This pain will be located in the area where the belly button is located.

Colon And Appendix

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A significant pain in the lower-mid region of the abdomen can be a sign that the colon or appendix is inflamed or not functioning properly. An appendicitis is a serious health issue that could have life-threatening consequences. The existence of a pain that suggests the possibility of appendicitis demands a trip to a physician immediately.

Kidneys

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This one can also be hard to read at times. This reason is when kidneys malfunction, can cause pain throughout the lower back, hips, pelvis, and abs. Pain that persists in these areas warrants an examination by a doctor.

Bladder

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pain and burning sensations in the front, back, or side of the pelvic area can be a sign of an infection to the bladder.

Ovaries

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Women that experience a stabbing pain on either side of the lower abdomen could be experiencing a problem with their ovaries. It is very important that any problem with the female reproductive system be addressed as soon as possible.

A persistent pain in this area should be checked by a physician.

The individual that is able to properly identify referral pain can be a great asset to the well-being of not only themselves but also their family and friends. Send this article about referral pain to all your contacts, they will thank you for it.

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Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!