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The NHS warns that if you experience 'tingling', particularly in two specific areas, it could be time to dial 999. In their guidance about back pain, they warn that this discomfort - combined with a tingling sensation - could be a sign of a serious condition. Back pain is frequently triggered by injuries such as muscle strains or medical conditions like slipped discs, sciatica (a trapped nerve), or ankylosing spondylitis. Whilst back pain is commonplace and often clears up on its own, in rare cases it can indicate "sign of a serious problem such as a broken bone, cancer or an infection", according to the health service . If your back pain continues, your first step should be contacting your GP, particularly if the pain is getting worse and disrupting your daily routine, reports Bristol Live . It's also crucial to assess how severe your pain is. What the NHS mean by severe pain:. Severe pain: Moderate pain: Mild pain: You should call 111 or ask for an urgent GP appointment if you have back pain and: You should call 999 or visit A&E if you have back pain and: The NHS warns that you should not drive to A&E. Instead, you should ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance. The NHS suggests trying anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen, but notes that "paracetamol on its own is not recommended for back pain but it may be used with another painkiller." To ease discomfort, you can apply a heat or ice pack, which can be made by wrapping frozen peas in a tea towel or using a hot water bottle. They also advise exercises and stretches for back pain. Despite the urge to stay in bed, the NHS cautions against extended bed rest. There are numerous exercises to assist with back pain which you can view on the NHS inform website . For instance, one exercise detailed requires you to lie down on your bed. "Rolling the knees from one side and to the other is one repetition", the NHS explains. You should