Shoulder Pain: When to Contact a Doctor
Because shoulder pain is a common complaint, some people don’t know when it’s time to stop home treatment and actually call a medical professional. There are cases in which calling a medical professional can save the affected area from further injury and perhaps severe and permanent damage. If you have shoulder pain, read on to find out when you should give home treatment a rest and visit your doctor instead.
If you feel sudden pain or pressure in your shoulder – and such pain or pressure extends from your jaw, neck, or chest and is accompanied by excessive sweating, dizziness, or shortness of breath, you’d do wisely to call your doctor right away. This type of shoulder pain is normally a sign of an occurring heart attack. Meanwhile, if your shoulder has just received a severe blow or been injured – and it is bleeding, swollen, inflamed, or badly bruised, you are highly advised to get to a hospital’s emergency room where you can be checked for possible dislocation or fracture.
Home care is the general recommendation for shoulder pain. However, there are instances where you should skip home care entirely and just seek professional help without delay. Aside from those mentioned above, you should also see a doctor as soon as possible if your shoulder pain is accompanied by redness, swelling, or fever; the shoulder joint is rendered useless; or if the pain or discomfort goes on for more than a week even with home care measures. Furthermore, you should refrain from moving your shoulder until further instructions from your doctor.
