Left Arm Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Emergency Causes
Left arm pain can be a symptom of a heart attack, angina, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If you experience left arm pain and other heart attack symptoms, such as chest discomfort or pain, shortness of breath, or upper body pain, call 911 immediately.
Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing the heart muscle to die. Symptoms of a heart attack include:
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Upper body pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
Angina
Angina is a heart condition characterized by a narrowed coronary artery, which reduces blood flow to the heart muscle. Symptoms include:
- Squeezing or pressure on the chest
- Feelings of indigestion or heartburn
- Pain in the shoulders, arms, back, neck, or jaw
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
DVT is a blood clot that develops in a vein deep within the body. Symptoms include:
- Pain, warmth, tenderness, and swelling in the affected arm
- A pulmonary embolism (PE) can occur if the blood clot breaks away and travels to the lungs
Other Causes of Dull, Flaring Left Arm Pain
- Trauma and injury, such as strains, sprains, or fractures
- Arthritis, which can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
- Pinched nerve, which can cause numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness
- Peripheral neuropathy, a condition in which the nerves do not function correctly
When to See a Provider
If you experience arm pain accompanied by symptoms of a heart condition, call 911 immediately. If you experience arm pain from an injury or a long-term condition like arthritis, contact a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider will diagnose arm pain based on reported symptoms and any required tests or scans. If arm pain is thought to be caused by a heart condition, the person may undergo:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) or stress test
- Blood tests to check for signs of a heart attack or angina
- Imaging tests, such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, to rule out other conditions
How to Minimize Future Pain
To minimize future pain, follow these tips:
- Alternate exercises every other day
- Cool down after exercise
- Stretch before playing sports
- Practice proper techniques
- Rest when needed
Summary
Left arm pain can be a symptom of a heart condition, injury, or long-term condition. If you experience left arm pain with chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart attack symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. If your arm pain is not related to a heart condition, contact a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.
