What causes pain in back when i sneeze or cough?
Patient: I have cyst on spinal cord so went to neurologist and he has ordered more mri with contrast, also of my brain. I have had back pain for 3 years, with an electric shock every time I sneeze or cough. now it happens more often, my pain is awful in legs , lower and upper back, bottoms of feet. I have weakness in my legs and arms. ive noticed my heartbeat is off too. its so bad I cant stand for more than 2 hours. The doctor gave me Lyrica but just started taking so cant tell if it helps. I would really appreciate your opinion. Doctor: Hi, I am Dr.Bruno.  I have read your question with care and understand your concerns. Let me try to help you starting to tell the basics 1. Brain is surrounded by a Fluid Called Cerebro Spinal Fluid. This Fluid also surrounds the Spinal Cord 2. So Any Change in Pressure inside the skull is reflected around the spinal cord also 3. When We cough or sneeze, the pressure within our abdomen raises4. Because of this increased pressure within the abdomen, the pressure within the veins also raises 5. Hence the pressure within skull also rises 5. This rise is transmitted to the Spinal Cord via the Fluid So When you sneeze or cough, you get a pain in your back since you have a cyst there Hope you found the answer helpful.If you need any clarification / have doubts / have additional questions / have follow up questions, then please do not hesitate in asking again. I will be happy to answer your questions.Let me know if I can assist you further.Take care.