Hello my name is Laurie Foster and I am 62 (male). Ive had on and off lower back pain (herniated disc) for many years. I recently had a long bout of coughing with a chest infection and it has triggered new pain in my left buttock and is getting worse. My GP says it is sciatic pain and has recommended physiotherapy. I also notice my ham stings are tight and painful Wouls I benefit from some form of back surgery?
Hi and thanks for the query, Sciatic pain has specific characteristics. Back pain, radiating towards lower limbs, aggravated by stress and coughing accompanied by lower limb electric currents discharge sensation, weakness or paralysis and pain. A physical exam, x-rays and CT scan are sufficient to make a diagnosis. It can actually be aggravated by coughing, especially chronic cough. A physical examination, complete blood count for white blood cell levels and a chest X-ray shall be sufficient to make a diagnosis of a chest infection. I suggest you consult a neurosurgeon to appreciate the gravity and direct further management. Thanks and kind regards. Bain LE, MD.