Is a bulging disc serious?
A bulging disc can go unnoticed and lead to disability if the disc compresses the spinal cord or the nerves leaving the spinal column. Symptoms of a serious disc injury may require aggressive medical intervention.The FactsEach intervertebral disc is a ring of cartilage with a fluid filled center (nucleus pulposus). The discs cushion spinal vertebrae, allowing smooth movement. Healthy discs prevent the compression of nerves leaving the spinal cord to serve the rest of the body (peripheral nerves).CausesA disc bulges when compression, through injury or degenerative disc disease, pushes its nucleus pulposus toward the outer disc wall. A bulging (herniated) disc puts pressure on the spinal cord and peripheral nerves.SymptomsAccording to Merck Medical Library, bulging discs causing loss of bladder and bowel control, numbness and weakness in legs (neurological deficits) or paralysis are considered serious.TreatmentDecompression surgery prevents or slows nerve damage. Removing herniated discs
