[24M] Experiencing localized underarm pain and tingling in extremities

Patient Description

A 24-year-old male reports experiencing a localized, slightly sharp pain under the left armpit when taking deep breaths, starting today. The patient also notes occasional tingling in the feet and arms when sitting in certain positions and tension on the left side of the neck. There is no associated shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in the area of pain. The patient has a history of anxiety and OCD, diagnosed at an unspecified time, and is allergic to penicillin. No other pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses were reported. The patient uses nicotine products but is not currently on any medications and has not mentioned any recent physical activities that could explain the symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've reported, here are a few possibilities:

  • Musculoskeletal Strain: This is a common cause of localized pain and can occur due to overuse or strain of the muscles or ligaments in the chest or upper body. This could potentially be related to your report of recent physical activity.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Physical therapy may also be beneficial.

  • Anxiety: Given your history of anxiety, it's possible that your symptoms are related. Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including chest pain and tingling in the extremities.

    • Treatment for anxiety often involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.

  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition occurs when the 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 typically involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Rest and avoid any activities that may exacerbate your pain.
  2. Apply ice to the area for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce any inflammation.
  3. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help with the pain.
  4. Practice good posture, especially when sitting for long periods of time.
  5. Engage in regular physical activity, but be sure to warm up properly and stretch both before and after exercising.
  6. If your symptoms are related to anxiety, techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation techniques may be helpful.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Symptoms that persist or worsen over time

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. This advice is intended to support, not replace, a consultation with a healthcare provider.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What could cause localized pain under the armpit when breathing deeply?

Localized pain under the armpit when breathing deeply could be due to musculoskeletal strain, which involves overuse or strain of muscles or ligaments in the chest or upper body. It can also be related to anxiety or other conditions like thoracic outlet syndrome.

Can anxiety cause physical symptoms like tingling in the extremities?

Yes, anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including tingling in the extremities, chest pain, and muscle tension. These symptoms are often due to the body's stress response.

What is thoracic outlet syndrome and how is it treated?

Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when the blood vessels or nerves in the space between the collarbone and the first rib are compressed, leading to pain in the shoulders and neck and numbness in the fingers. Treatment typically involves physical therapy and pain relief measures, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

How can musculoskeletal strain be managed at home?

Musculoskeletal strain can be managed at home by resting the affected area, applying ice to reduce inflammation, taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, and practicing good posture. Gentle stretching and physical therapy may also be beneficial.

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