MDandMe is now on the iOS App Store!

[31M] Experiencing intermittent sharp chest pain radiating to left arm

Patient Description

A 31-year-old male has been experiencing intermittent sharp chest pain for approximately 6 months. The pain radiates into the left arm and between the shoulder blades. The patient reports that the pain occurs at rest and is not affected by physical exertion or emotional stress. Accompanying symptoms include shortness of breath and sweating, but no nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. There are no reported activities or movements that exacerbate or alleviate the pain. The patient does not have a history of chronic illnesses, allergies, or adverse reactions to medications, and is not currently on any medications.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

  • Angina: This is chest pain or discomfort caused when your heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. It may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. The discomfort can also occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain may even feel like indigestion.

    • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes, surgery. You may also need to treat underlying conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure.

  • Heart Attack: Your symptoms could also be a sign of a heart attack, especially since the pain is radiating to your left arm and you're experiencing shortness of breath. However, heart attacks usually come on suddenly and are severe from the start, whereas your pain has been present for several months.

    • Treatment for a heart attack usually involves taking certain drugs, undergoing surgical procedures, making lifestyle changes, and going through rehabilitation.

  • Musculoskeletal Pain: This is pain that affects the muscles, ligaments and tendons, and bones. The pain can be localized in one area, or widespread.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain relievers, and alternative treatments like acupuncture.

Please note that these are only possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. You should see a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

Given the nature of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Chest pain can indicate serious conditions, such as a heart attack, which require immediate treatment.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms become severe, or if you experience any of the following, seek emergency medical attention:

  • Severe chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fainting
  • Confusion or trouble speaking
  • A fast or irregular heartbeat

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

1 yr ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Tingling or Cold Sensations at the Back of Your Head

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of chest pain that radiates to the left arm?

Common causes of chest pain that radiates to the left arm include angina, heart attack, and sometimes musculoskeletal issues. Angina is due to reduced blood flow to the heart, while a heart attack is a blockage of blood flow. Musculoskeletal pain can also cause similar symptoms but is related to muscles and bones.

How can I differentiate between angina and a heart attack?

Angina typically presents as a recurring discomfort or pain that occurs with exertion and is relieved by rest, while a heart attack usually involves sudden, severe pain that may not be relieved by rest and is often accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath and sweating.

What lifestyle changes can help manage angina symptoms?

Lifestyle changes to manage angina include quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight. These changes can help improve heart health and reduce symptoms.

When should I seek emergency medical attention for chest pain?

You should seek emergency medical attention for chest pain if it is severe, accompanied by difficulty breathing, fainting, confusion, trouble speaking, or a fast or irregular heartbeat, as these could be signs of a heart attack or other serious condition.

Similar Stories

[30M] Experiencing intermittent dull chest and arm pain

[27F] Experiencing sharp chest pain radiating to left shoulder

[18F] Experiencing chest discomfort and left arm pain

Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Similar Stories

[30M] Experiencing intermittent dull chest and arm pain

[27F] Experiencing sharp chest pain radiating to left shoulder

[18F] Experiencing chest discomfort and left arm pain

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback