What is a Bulging Disc? Symptoms, causes & treatment of the condition Anushka Sharma is suffering from
Bollywood actress and Virat Kohli's wife Anushka Sharma is said to be suffering from a bulging disc. Here's all you need to know about the condition, including its symptoms, causes and treatment options.
New Delhi: Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma is said to be suffering from a bulging disc, commonly referred to as a slipped disc or a protruding disc. According to reports, the actress has been advised rest by her doctors. However, Anushka is not letting her health problems stop her from promoting her upcoming film Sui Dhaga, in which she stars opposite Varun Dhawan. Anushka Sharma got married to Virat Kohli at a private ceremony in Italy in December 2017.
While we hope and wish that Anushka will make a speedy recovery from her current health issues, let us take a look at what exactly bulging discs are, including the signs and symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Read on to learn more about this common health occurrence.
What is a bulging disc? What are the signs and symptoms of it?
A bulging disc is a condition in which the tough outer layer of the disc bulges into the spinal canal. It is a common spine injury and can happen in your lumbar spine (lower back), thoracic spine (upper and mid-back) or your cervical spine (neck).
The signs and symptoms of bulging discs can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. A person with the condition may have no symptoms as long as the bulging area does not press against a nearby nerve. However, a person may experience severe pain if displaced disc material puts pressure on a spinal nerve. These symptoms may include:
*Pain - the damaged disc can cause pain radiating to the hips, buttocks, legs, and feet. In the cervical spine, pain can radiate from the neck, down the arm and to the fingers.
*Numbness
*Weakness
*Tingling
*Muscle spasms
What causes a bulging disc?
There are a number of factors that can cause bulging discs and each of which causes discs to weaken. Most common causes are injury, wear-and-tear, ageing, excess body weight, severe trauma, etc. Genetics may also play a role in the development of the condition, although it’s not well understood. It is said that people with a family history of degenerative spine conditions, such as a bulging disc, are more likely to get the condition.
Treatments
Generally, people diagnosed with a bulging disc are recommended treatments designed to relieve symptoms, such as warm compresses, exercises, medication, and rest. If conservative treatment fails, a patient may be advised surgery. Making changes, such as losing weight and quitting smoking can have a positive effect on the treatment of bulging disc symptoms. A very mild bulging disc may be able to heal itself without medical intervention.