Osteochondrosis is a common disease of the spine, characterized by degenerative changes in the structure of the cartilage tissue in the discs and bone base.Pathology manifests itself mainly after 30 years.
Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis can be different, which greatly complicates the process of diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Features of the disease
The cervical region consists of vertebrae and nerve endings.Osteochondrosis of this area is formed during the degeneration of the intervertebral core.In this case, the ongoing pathology affects nerve endings and important blood vessels.
The disease is well disguised as other disorders, as the symptoms of osteochondrosis are characterized by attacks of headache as well as the occurrence of significant discomfort in the neck.Patients complain of blood pressure problems and nausea.Many people often confuse such symptoms with diseases of the heart and blood vessels.
Often, against the background of ongoing problems, the patient suddenly begins to lose consciousness, there is a lack of air and numbness of the tongue.The disease is mainly diagnosed in people over 30 years of age, which is associated with constant dynamic and static loads.Recently, such disorders have been observed even in young people.
Degrees of development
Symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on the degree of development of the disease.In the first phase, the cartilage tissue's nutrition is disrupted, resulting in the production of certain enzymes that have a destructive effect.The person feels severe discomfort.Daily morning exercises help to get rid of such symptoms.
At the second stage, the harmful effects of pathological enzymes are constantly increasing, and inflammation begins to develop in the body.The cartilage tissue gradually wears away as a result of the vertebrae starting to touch and pinch the nerve endings.Painful sensations become more pronounced.It becomes very difficult for a person to work.
At the third degree, neoplasms and growths on bone tissue begin to form.Symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in this case manifest in the form of intense pain.There is a metabolic disorder, so salts begin to be deposited on the spine, in the area of inflammation.The process of ossification of the vertebrae begins, which leads to the gradual development of an intervertebral hernia.
It is not always possible to immediately determine the stage of the disease based on the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, since the degree of tissue destruction may not correspond to the existing signs.
Reasons
Before determining the symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis, you need to understand exactly what factors affect the formation of the pathological process.The development of the disease is influenced by pathological and physiological processes, which are closely related and are mainly considered together.
Physiological changes can be induced by irreversible age-related processes in cartilage tissue.Discomfort occurs when nerve endings are irritated.Pathological changes occur as a result of poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.Mostly, such disorders occur in young and middle-aged people.
In some cases, osteochondrosis can go away on its own or manifest itself in the form of short-term disorders.Among the most important provocative factors, the following must be highlighted:
- lack of regular physical activity;
- excess weight;
- frequent stay in an uncomfortable position;
- incorrectly selected pillow or mattress;
- nervous overload;
- hypothermia;
- injuries to the back of the head and neck.
The reason for the development of osteochondrosis can be congenital anomalies, as well as various types of autoimmune diseases.
Main symptoms
There are many vessels and nerve endings located in the neck area.It is for this reason that the symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical and thoracic spine are associated with ischemia in certain areas of the brain.In addition, the nerve endings that provide motor activity and sensitivity of the shoulder girdle and upper limbs, when compressed by destroyed vertebrae, can cause various manifestations.Symptoms and treatment of cervical osteochondrosis largely depend on which system is affected by the pathological process.In particular, the following signs can be identified:
- disruption of blood microcirculation due to compression of vertebral arteries;
- signs of damage to nerve endings;
- severe neurotic pathologies in advanced cases.
The first symptom of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis of the spine is the presence of pain in the neck, back of the head and collar area.The localization of pain may be more widespread and induce severe migraine.The nature of the pain largely depends on the location of the lesion and the severity of the pathology.In the initial stages of the disease, discomfort can quickly pass, and gradually the pain becomes chronic and painful.During the period of exacerbation, the pain becomes shooting, the tone of the neck muscles increases, and there is a limitation in head movement.
Among the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis in women and men are the presence of ringing and noise in the ears, as well as congestion.In some cases, hearing loss occurs.All these manifestations are associated with a decrease in blood flow.
Among the main functions are also the following:
- dizziness,
- pressure changes,
- lack of air,
- nausea,
- visual impairment.
Dizziness is considered one of the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis.They are caused by a violation of the blood flow to the organs that ensure the balance of the body.Lack of air can occur as a result of irritation of the nerve endings involved in the regulation of the breathing process.Patients often complain that they cannot breathe deeply.In some cases, the symptoms worsen to severe shortness of breath or asthma attacks.
Lack of oxygen associated with breathing problems is the main cause of increased fatigue, reduced attention and memory problems.In some cases, there may be nausea, which is due to poor circulation in certain areas of the brain.Sometimes it can be accompanied by vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Symptoms of osteochondrosis of the cervical spine manifest in the form of deterioration of visual acuity.However, such a violation occurs quite rarely.It is worth noting that performing therapeutic exercises and wearing glasses does not give the required result, and vision improves only after treatment for osteochondrosis.
Unstable pressure is caused by reduced blood circulation in the area of the brain responsible for the function of the vascular-motor center.In some cases, a slight increase in temperature and local redness of the skin can be observed.
It is very important to immediately recognize the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis.The feeling of discomfort and pain does not always occur, which is why it is important to carry out a comprehensive examination and competent treatment in a timely manner.It is worth noting that every patient experiences a crunching sound and characteristic clicks when moving the neck, and it is by this sign that the course of the pathology can be recognized.
Performing diagnostics
If symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, treatment must be started immediately, which is why it is advisable to immediately consult a neurologist.To determine the cause of the existing symptoms, a comprehensive investigation is required.
During an examination with neurological tests, the doctor assesses the degree of mobility and pain in the neck as well as the characteristics of the blood circulation in the vertebral artery.Among the most important diagnostic methods, the following must be highlighted:
- x-ray of the cervical vertebrae,
- discography,
- tomography,
- myelography,
- Doppler ultrasound.
All this will allow us to determine the location of the lesion and the degree of advanced disease, as well as choose the most effective treatment regimen.The treatment process is quite long and requires patience.
It is impossible to completely restore cartilage structures, but it is possible to significantly improve the quality of life and get rid of chronic pain.It is very important to monitor the course of the disease in order to adjust the treatment program if necessary and predict possible improvements or complications.
Features of treatment
Regardless of the symptoms, treatment of cervical osteochondrosis is carried out using conservative methods, and it is always comprehensive.Use of medication is required, especially:
- anti-inflammatory drugs,
- analgesics,
- corticosteroids,
- muscle relaxants,
- vitamin complexes.
In severe cases, novocaine blocks are prescribed in the area of greatest pain.Sometimes the introduction of hormonal agents may be indicated.In addition, local treatment is indicated, which involves the use of warming ointments and gels.Physiotherapy and exercise therapy have a good effect.Such techniques allow you to very quickly and effectively strengthen your neck muscles.However, their use is only possible after the acute period has subsided.
To increase the clearance between the vertebrae, hardware features in the spine are indicated.In severe cases, surgical intervention is necessary, but there must be suitable indications for this.
Therapy can be supplemented by wearing a Shants orthopedic collar.Due to the strong fixation of the cervical vertebrae, the treatment is carried out much faster.This device allows you to quickly cope with painful sensations, normalize blood circulation in the neck and improve the general well-being of the patient.
Drug therapy
Depending on the symptoms of cervicothoracic osteochondrosis, treatment with medication is selected individually.Therapy is aimed at eliminating pain, inflammation, as well as returning normal mobility to the vertebrae and blood circulation.
Among the main groups of medicines, the following must be highlighted:
- analgesics;
- anti-inflammatory;
- chondroprotectors;
- muscle relaxants;
- vitamin complexes.
There is a need for products for external use, which can be used in the form of ointments and gels.They help normalize blood circulation, eliminate pain and spasms, and also produce a warming effect.
Treatment with drugs that normalize cerebral circulation helps to eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis of the spine.To improve metabolic processes in the brain, as well as restore thinking and memory, nootropic drugs are required.
Physiotherapy techniques
Treatment with special therapeutic exercises will quickly and effectively help eliminate the existing symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis at home.In addition to exercise therapy and the use of medication, the range of measures includes the following methods of influence:
- stretching of the spine,
- massage,
- physiotherapeutic influence.
Traction of the spine will increase the spaces between the vertebrae.However, it is worth remembering that the load must be dosed.The influence is carried out in different ways, especially with the help of special tables.
Massage gives very good results.This procedure normalizes blood circulation, nutrition and gas exchange of cartilaginous tissue.In addition, with the help of massage, you can eliminate muscle tension and spasms and get rid of painful sensations.
Physiotherapy effects involve the use of various means, such as:
- laser exposure,
- magnetic field,
- ultrasound,
- low frequency current.
In some cases, medicines are also used in combination with physiotherapy, which increases their effectiveness and avoids the occurrence of side effects.
Acupuncture allows you to enhance or slightly slow down processes in the body by affecting biologically active points.The greatest effectiveness of all these measures is achieved when they are used to the full.
Traditional methods
When the first symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis appear, treatment at home involves the use of medicinal baths to quickly eliminate pain and inflammation.In addition, they help to relax the spine.Water procedures should be carried out every other day, and the course of therapy is 15-20 procedures.
You can add a decoction of mint, chamomile, birch, lemon balm or sage to your bath water.Yarrow infusion is suitable for oral administration, as it helps to quickly eliminate inflammation, pain and spasms.A solution of sea salt can be used as compresses.Treatment at home will quickly help eliminate the symptoms of cervical osteochondrosis, but before using any means and techniques, you should definitely consult a doctor to prevent complications.
Implementation of prevention
The best way to prevent is a healthy lifestyle, as well as the formation of posture from childhood.For the purpose of prevention, it is recommended:
- nutritional adjustments;
- use of an orthopedic pillow and mattress for sleeping;
- smooth lifting of weights.
The original form of the disease generally does not have pronounced symptoms.If you experience sharp pains in the sternum area, you should see a doctor immediately.
Possible complications
With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, osteochondrosis of the cervical spine occurs without complications.Otherwise, there is a risk of various types of pathological changes that can lead to disability.Among the main complications are:
- circulatory disorders in the brain;
- increased blood pressure;
- weakness, numbness, muscle atrophy;
- hernias and protrusions;
- vegetative-vascular dystonia;
- neurological disorders.
To prevent the development of complications, you must carefully follow all the recommendations of your doctor.Getting rid of unpleasant sensations at an early stage is much easier than treating an advanced disease.It is also important not to forget prevention and to prevent poor posture in the child.Folk remedies help in the fight against the disease, but you should not completely rely on them and refuse drug treatment.This can lead to a worsening of the problem when surgical intervention is required.