When left untreated, it can lead to permanent neurological damage and disability. It is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing cauda equina syndrome.
What are the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?
The main symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include:
Lower back pain
This is usually the first symptom of CES. The pain can be severe and may radiate down the legs. Once you are experiencing such pain, you might be at risk of cauda equina syndrome and should consult your doctor to be safe.
Numbness or tingling
People with cauda equina syndrome may experience numbness or tingling in the legs, buttocks or genital area. Tingling sensations can be alarming and must be checked for CES if frequently experienced.
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Cauda equina syndrome can cause issues with bowel and bladder function, including incontinence or difficulty when passing urine or stool. This can occur with general spinal cord injury, so it is essential to be aware of symptoms worsening over time.
Reduced sensation
CES can cause changes in sensation in the affected area, including a loss of feeling or an abnormal sensation. This is common in spinal cord injury but can worsen with cauda equina syndrome.
Sexual dysfunction
CES can cause sexual dysfunction, including difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection or struggle to orgasm. This could potentially resolve with physical therapy or numerous forms of medication.
Seek support for cauda equina syndrome
You must seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as cauda equina syndrome can lead to permanent and severe nerve damage if left untreated.
Treatment for CES often involves decompressing the affected nerves, usually through surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent damage and improve outcomes. It’s also important to understand that not everyone will experience all of the same symptoms, and the severity of each can differ from person to person.
How is cauda equina syndrome diagnosed?
Cauda equina syndrome can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms are often similar to other conditions. To diagnose cauda equina syndrome, a healthcare provider will ask about your medical history, perform a physical examination and use CT and MRI scans to perform imaging tests.
The treatment process for cauda equina syndrome
Treatment can depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. In most cases, surgery is necessary to decompress the nerves at the base of the spine. This is either done via a laminectomy (removal of the vertebrae) or a laminotomy (removal of a small portion of the vertebrae).
Other treatments may be necessary, such as antibiotics to treat infections or even blood thinners to resolve blood clots. Physical therapy can also be recommended to help those with cauda equina syndrome to regain strength and mobility.
The prognosis for cauda equina syndrome
The prognosis will depend entirely on the severity of the condition and how quickly it is treated. In most cases, providing early treatment will help prevent permanent neurological damage. However, some patients may experience ongoing symptoms even after treatment, such as weakness or numbness in the legs.
How Aspire Law can help
We will work with medical professionals and highly respected spinal cord injury experts to establish how you would benefit from early intervention and make the case for early specialist rehabilitation. Get in touch with us today to explore your options.
