When heart pain radiates to the arm, it is not always indicative of a heart problem. Such a symptom may also be associated with conditions unrelated to cardiac issues, such as osteochondrosis. Understanding the accompanying symptoms can help pinpoint the cause.
Heart-Related Causes of Pain
1. Angina Pectoris
If heart pain radiates to the left arm, a doctor may suspect angina. This condition typically involves chest pain that hinders normal breathing and may extend to the left arm, neck, and jaw. The pain persists regardless of body position.
2. Heart Attack
A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, involves the death of a portion of the heart muscle. The pain not only concentrates in the heart area but also spreads to the left arm and back. Symptoms include:
- Intense, burning pain of varying severity
- Shortness of breath
- Numbness in the arm
3. Myocarditis
Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle and presents with:
- Pressing pain behind the sternum
- Discomfort in the shoulder and neck
- Intermittent difficulty breathing
The pain associated with myocarditis does not subside and may intensify with movement.
Non-Heart-Related Causes of Pain
1. Osteochondrosis of the Thoracic Spine
Osteochondrosis can cause compression of nerve roots, leading to pain in the heart area that radiates to the left arm, accompanied by numbness and discomfort during movement.
2. Intercostal Neuralgia
This condition can mimic angina but is characterized by increased pain with movement. Signs of intercostal neuralgia include:
- Redness and reduced skin sensitivity in the affected area
3. Mediastinitis
This is inflammation of the anterior mediastinum and may result from digestive tract diseases or trauma. Symptoms include:
- Pain radiating to the left arm during swallowing and inhalation
- Bluish skin tone
- Feverish states
- Rapid heartbeat
- Coughing fits
- Increased sweating
- Hoarse voice
Pain in mediastinitis is not typically severe but consistently extends to the arm.
Other Potential Causes
Pain radiating to the left arm can also be associated with:
- Cardioneurosis
- Lung diseases
- Shoulder arthritis
Importance of Medical Attention
Only a qualified healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of such pain and prescribe appropriate treatment. Self-medication is not recommended, as it may delay proper care and worsen the condition.