An Easy Help Guide To CES
If you're experiencing pain, weakness or numbness in your bladder and legs, you may have cauda equina compensation. This serious condition can result in permanent damage or even paralysis.
The disorder is a problem with the cauda Equina the nerve roots that are located in the lower spinal region. The cause of this condition is usually caused by a herniated disc, tumor, infection, and other conditions.
Signs
A nerve group known as the cauda equina, which in Latin is "horse’s tail" is situated within the lower back. The nerves control movement as well as sensation in the legs, bladder and pelvic organs.
They transmit messages to the brain about the temperature, pain and vibration. They won't function properly if the nerves are severely compressed.
If not treated immediately, CES can cause permanent damage to the legs and pelvis. This includes loss of sexual dysfunction, bowel function, and even the bladder and bowel functions.
Visit your doctor first. The doctor will take your medical history into consideration, conduct an examination of your body, and order multiple diagnostic tests.
Diagnosis
The cauda equina, which refers to a horse's tail Latin is a set of nerve roots which are located at the bottom of your spinal cord. These nerves send messages to your feet, legs and pelvic organs. They help you feel and move throughout your lower body.
These nerves may become constricted and lead to problems with the bladder, bowel or legs. These signs are a sign of serious illnesses known as cauda equina claims.
Your symptoms and physical exam will allow you to determine if you have CES. The doctor may also perform a rectal examination to check the muscles in your abdomen and observe how they feel when you pass urine.
If you suspect that you be suffering from CES you should visit the emergency department or the hospital right away. Early diagnosis and treatment could stop permanent damage, such as paralysis, from happening.
Treatment
Treatment that eases pressure and allows nerves to heal is often the best treatment for cauda-equina syndrome. If it's left untreated, it can cause permanent damage, including paralysis.
The most common treatment for cauda-equina disorders is spinal decompression surgery, which relieves the tension on nerves in the spine, and expands the amount of space they have available. During the procedure, your neurosurgeon will make an incision on your back, at the location of compression in order to identify and remove herniated discs, bone fragments, or tumors that may be pressing on nerve roots.
You may need to take medication to relieve the pain and swelling. If the pressure is due to the presence of a tumor, your physician may recommend chemotherapy or radiation. To ensure that the condition doesn't worsen, you will have to stay in contact with your doctor.
Prevention
Beware of straining your spine or back to the point that can cause a herniated disc is the best way to prevent the cauda-equina condition. This means bent knees and lifting properly when you're carrying large objects or working which requires you to be bent at the waist.
A herniated disk occurs when the gel-like center of a disc in the spinal region extends out of an infected area of the disk. This is usually seen in the lower back and lumbar spinal column (L4 and L5-S1).
In some cases, a herniated disc can press against the cauda equina and result in symptoms such as numbness, weakness, and loss of bladder or bowel function. These symptoms can be very serious, so it is essential to seek immediate treatment if you are experiencing them.
A surgical procedure early on can help relieve the stress on nerve roots that are the cause of these symptoms. It may also improve the likelihood of regaining bladder and bowel functions.