[37M] Experiencing left arm pain and associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 37-year-old male has been experiencing constant burning pain in his entire left arm, rated 7 out of 10 in severity, for the past two days, which worsens with movement. Concurrently, he reports severe heartburn, particularly at night, and shortness of breath. The patient also describes night sweats, fatigue, and back pain. Nausea is present, but no specific triggers for the heartburn have been identified. The patient's medical history includes a C5-C7 disc replacement on August 30, 2023, and right shoulder surgery on April 23, 2019. He has an allergy to Ceclor but is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible causes for your symptoms:

  • Heart Disease or Angina: The combination of left arm pain, severe heartburn, shortness of breath, night sweats, fatigue, back pain, and nausea could be indicative of a heart condition. Angina, a symptom of coronary artery disease, can cause similar symptoms. It's important to note that heart disease can present differently in different people, and what you're describing could be a type of angina called "unstable angina". This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.

    • Treatment typically involves medications, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgical procedures.

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause heartburn. If GERD is left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In severe cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.

  • Cervical Disc Disease: Given your history of a C5-C7 disc replacement, it's possible that some of your symptoms could be related to issues with your cervical spine. However, this wouldn't explain all of your symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgical procedures.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to seek immediate medical attention given your symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Given your symptoms, it's crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. Please go to the nearest emergency department or call an ambulance.

  2. Lifestyle Changes: If your symptoms are related to GERD, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding foods and drinks that trigger heartburn, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after a meal can help manage your symptoms.

  3. Follow Your Doctor's Instructions: If your symptoms are related to your cervical disc disease, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding medication, physical therapy, and other treatments.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or if you start experiencing chest pain, please seek immediate medical attention.

  • New Symptoms: If you start experiencing new symptoms, such as fainting, severe headache, or confusion, please seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your condition and provide a definitive diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What are the symptoms of angina and why is it considered a medical emergency?

Angina symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, pain in the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, sweating, and dizziness. It is considered a medical emergency because it can be a sign of an impending heart attack, requiring immediate medical attention to prevent serious heart damage.

How can GERD be managed and what lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms?

GERD can be managed with lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding trigger foods and drinks, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating. Over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors can also help. In severe cases, prescription medications or surgery may be necessary.

What are the potential complications of untreated GERD?

Untreated GERD can lead to complications such as esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), Barrett's esophagus (a precancerous condition), and an increased risk of esophageal cancer.

How can cervical disc disease affect the body and what are common treatments?

Cervical disc disease can cause neck pain, stiffness, and radiating pain or numbness in the arms and hands. Common treatments include physical therapy, pain management with medications, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

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