[20F] Experiencing burning and prickly sensations in left arm

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female reports a burning and prickly sensation in her left arm, described as pins and needles, that has been occurring for the past three days. The sensations come and go and are exacerbated by driving, repetitive hand motions, and holding objects. She also experiences a sensation of wetness without actual moisture and random burning around her shoulder and left breast. There is no pattern to the tingling, and no changes in skin color, temperature, or swelling have been noted. The patient does not report weakness, paralysis, chest pain, or shortness of breath. She experienced nausea and diarrhea four days ago but is unsure if it is related. Her medical history includes post orthostatic hypotension syndrome and a herniated disc diagnosed two years ago. She has a family history of myasthenia gravis and dementia. Currently, she is taking Lexapro 5mg and norethindrone 5mg daily, with side effects including weight gain and mood swings. She also takes a multivitamin and a probiotic regularly. No allergies or adverse reactions to medications have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

  • Peripheral Neuropathy: This condition results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which often causes weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body, like your arm. Peripheral neuropathy can result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, and exposure to toxins. One of the most common causes is diabetes.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the condition causing your neuropathy. In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. For more severe symptoms, your doctor might recommend prescription medications.

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand — the median nerve — is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist.

    • In most patients, carpal tunnel syndrome gets worse over time, so early diagnosis and treatment are important. Early on, symptoms can often be relieved with simple measures like wearing a wrist splint or avoiding certain activities.

  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This group of disorders occurs when blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.

    • Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome usually involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. Most people improve with these approaches.

  • Brachial Plexus Injury: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that sends signals from your spine to your shoulder, arm, and hand. A brachial plexus injury occurs when these nerves are stretched, compressed, or in the most serious cases, ripped apart or torn away from the spinal cord.

    • Minor injuries may get better on their own, but severe cases may require surgery.

Please remember that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Try to rest your arm and avoid any activities that seem to worsen your symptoms.
  2. Over-the-counter pain relievers might help with the discomfort. Always be sure to follow the package instructions.
  3. If your symptoms persist or get worse, it's important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and possibly order tests like nerve conduction studies or an MRI to help determine what's causing your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen or spread to other areas
  • You experience sudden, severe pain in your arm
  • You have difficulty moving your arm or hand
  • You notice a deformity or swelling in your arm or hand
  • You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or any other signs of a heart attack

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of a pins and needles sensation in the arm?

A pins and needles sensation in the arm can be caused by several conditions, including peripheral neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, or a brachial plexus injury. It can also result from temporary compression of nerves due to posture or repetitive motions.

How can carpal tunnel syndrome be managed or treated?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be managed with wrist splints, avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In more severe cases, physical therapy or surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

What is thoracic outlet syndrome and how is it treated?

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a condition where nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib are compressed, causing pain and numbness. Treatment typically involves physical therapy to improve posture and strengthen muscles, along with pain relief measures. In some cases, surgery may be required.

When should I seek medical attention for arm tingling and pain?

You should seek medical attention if your arm tingling and pain worsen, spread to other areas, or if you experience severe pain, difficulty moving your arm or hand, or any signs of a heart attack such as chest pain or shortness of breath.

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