Seven Types of Pain You should Never Ignore

Pain #2: Unexplained, Persistent Pain in the Chest, Throat, Jaw, Arm, or Belly

Most people are well aware that chest pain could mean a heart problem and even a heart attack (you need to be aware of the 10 symptoms of heart attack).

However, pains—even minor discomforts—in the chest, throat, jaw, arm or belly could also indicate serious cardiac problems.

Some people with heart problems mistake their initial symptoms for stomach or intestinal problems. Heart trouble can even mimic simple acid reflux. If you experience unexplained, persistent discomfort in any of these areas, and you know you have high risk of cardiac problems, please visit a doctor.

Pain #3: An Excruciating Headache

Let’s be honest: headaches are a nuisance that we all have to live with at some time or another.

Often, headaches happen due to easily remedied issues like dehydration, sinus congestion or tension, and can be solved with drinking lots of water, using a neti pot, and taking a time-out to meditate on a regular basis.

However, if you’re gulping down fluids and keeping calm but your headache still isn’t going away, it’s best if you mention it to your physician. An awful headache (the worst headache of your life) that just won’t budge may be a sign of brain bleeding, which requires immediate emergency care.

Pain #4: Sudden or Nagging Back Pain

We’ve all had back pain at one time or another, due to sitting long time on the computer, poor posture, working hard in the garden or starting a new excessive program. Backache is one of the most common physical complaints, and many people suffer from it chronically. I mentioned in the past the best 13 exercise to prevent back pain.

However, a sudden ache in the lower back or the area between the shoulders could indicate a deadly tear in the aorta, the main blood vessel running to the heart.

Such a tear—called an aortic dissection—is critically serious, and needs to be attended to by medical professionals right away. If you have a backache or a pain between the shoulders that can’t be accounted for and you are at risk of having conditions such as high blood pressure, circulation problems, smoking, and diabetes, please see a doctor immediately.