Which red flag symptom indicates a potential need for urgent evaluation in a patient with low back pain?

Loss of bowel or bladder control is considered a red flag symptom that indicates a potential need for urgent evaluation in a patient with low back pain. This symptom can suggest serious underlying conditions, such as cauda equina syndrome, which is a medical emergency that can lead to permanent loss of function if not addressed promptly. In such cases, the spinal nerves that control bowel and bladder function may be severely compressed, requiring immediate intervention.

Recognizing this symptom is crucial, as it highlights the need for further diagnostic evaluation and potentially urgent surgical treatment. Identifying and addressing these red flags appropriately can make a significant difference in patient outcomes. Other symptoms, while they may warrant further investigation, do not typically carry the same level of urgency as loss of bowel or bladder control.