Suggest Treatment For Severe Chest Pain That Radiates Down The Left Arm

Posted on Tue, 9 May 2017

Question: I began having some bad chest pain Saturday-pains began going down my left arm to my hand. From my chest to the center of my shoulder blade has been very sensitive and my left under arm has been painful and sensitive to the touch!! I have had a very bad cough since I had the flu in January

Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Suggestions given

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

Since heart attack has been ruled out as a possible cause, the cause of pain remains to be understood. I would consider pancreatitis, cervical spondylosis and gastroesophageal reflux as possible causes. You would need to get an X Ray of the cervical spine done to rule out cervical spondylosis. If diagnosed, physical therapy can provide relief. Blood for lipase and amylase would be the next steps if pancreatitis is to be ruled out. For GERD, in order to relieve yourself, you need to do the following:
* Avoid spicy food. Take small but frequent meals. Avoid long gaps between meals.
* Avoid alcohol intake (if it a part of your habit).
* Take Prilosec (omeprazole) once daily before breakfast.
* Take plenty of green leafy vegetables as well as other sources of dietary fibers. Take fiber supplements like isabgol/psyllium husk or senna. I would insist you to increase your dietary fiber intake.
* Regular morning walk and exercise to keep the bowel movements proper.
* Take curd or yogurt on daily basis. It contains beneficial bacteria and should help.
* Stress reduction has a very important role to play. Yoga and meditation should help.

Hopefully that should help.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng