Things To Learn About Cauda Equina Syndrome
The nerve root bundle looks like a horse's tail. It runs from the lower end of the spinal cord to lower back bones (vertebrae) and finally to the bone at base of the spine (sacrum).
If a herniated disc presses the cauda equina, it causes the incontinence, pain, and weakness, and other symptoms. This is a medical emergency that must be treated promptly.
The Reasons
If you're experiencing symptoms of cauda equina It is recommended to seek out the emergency department immediately. The sooner your pressure on your nerve roots is reduced, the better chance you have of regaining control of the bladder and bowel function.
There are a variety of ailments that can cause the cauda equina become damaged or compressed. Spinal stenosis and herniated discs are some of the potential causes. Sneak a peek at this site to get additional resources on cauda equina syndrome.
If any of these conditions develops and your nerves are strained, it can lead to severe discomfort in your lower back, buttocks, or 2 or more legs. The pain may also be associated with numbness or weakness in these areas.
The signs of the syndrome may be subtle or abrupt. Both types of cases show most common red flags such as weakness or numbness in the legs, back pain, urinary incontinence, the incontinence or retention of the bladder, bowels, and numbness.
Signs
When a spinal disc presses nerve roots within the cauda equina, this blocks movement and sensation. If left untreated, it can result in permanent leg weakness as well as bladder dysfunction (inability to empty the bowel), the loss of sexual function and other complications.
The symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome are different depending on which nerve roots are compressed. The signs include severe low back pain, bowel or bladder incontinence, muscle weakness, sensory loss, or both legs feeling numb.
Surgery may be required to create more space for nerve roots when the condition is severe. The surgical procedure is called lumbar decompression, and it can reduce the symptoms of caudaequina and improve your chances of returning to normal functioning.
In addition to a herniated disk, other causes of cauda equina can include spinal infections, tumors and even spine trauma. Cauda Equina could be caused by failed back surgery, arteriovenous malformations as well as other causes. These conditions may cause harm by disrupting blood flow to the spine cord.
Diagnosis
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is an emergency caused by a herniated disk, spinal cord tumor, inflammation, or narrowing of the canal. It is crucial to diagnose it early in order to avoid permanent issues.
Your doctor will ask you about your history and symptoms. This will help them diagnose CES.
The symptoms of CES are likely to vary in intensity and change slowly in time. The symptoms can include pain in the legs, weakness and numbness, and incontinence (inability to eliminate urine).
CES must be treated immediately. If not treated, it can cause long-term problems. The treatment typically involves removal of any debris that is clogging the nerve root and allow them to heal.
The early decompression surgery, also known as laminectomy lumbar, can ease the pressure on the cauda-equina nerves. This procedure can bring back normal functioning and avoid permanent damage , such as paralysis.
Treatment
The cauda equina , also known as the cauda collection of nerve roots which are located in the middle of the spinal cord. These nerves transmit signals to your body to regulate the sensory and motor actions of your legs as well as bladder.
The symptoms of cauda-equina syndrome result from the pressure placed on these nerves. If untreated, it can lead to permanent damage.
Sometimes, surgery is suggested to alleviate pressure on the nerve and prevent the condition from getting any worse. This will prevent paralysis and other issues that can last a long time, such as bladder or bowel problems.
A neurosurgeon can diagnose your cauda-equina with imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If the doctor believes the herniated disc or tumor caused the nerves to compress, they may recommend surgical intervention to eliminate the source of the pressure.
Patients typically require a short hospitalization following surgery to recover. Additionally, they may require a course of physical therapy to regain strength in their lower legs.
