What Causes Dull Pain In The Arm After Travelling By Flight?

Posted on Tue, 7 Jun 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 7 Jun 2016 Answered on

Tue, 5 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I was out to dinner on a business trip in Montreal the day after flying across the continent from Oregon. Near the end of dinner, I felt a sensation on the inside of my upper right arm that grew into what is now a dull pain, though pain is a bit strong a description. My sense is that this could be a circulation issue, but there is no discoloration or swelling that I see, though I would say that there may be a bit of weakness. I have taken two aspirin to see if it eases the discomfort. I do not think that I have any other impairment of function mentally or physically, and was able to walk a mile back to my room. My inclination is to see how things are in the morning, but I wonder if maybe I have a deep vein thrombosis or similar event that has partially blocked circulation and that may need treatment?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome

I appreciate your concern

Based on your description it appears to be a musculoskeletal problem. However if on examination there is increase in girth of the arm then the most important investigation initially would be a doppler ultrasound of the upper limb to look for a possible DVT. Treatment would involve anticoagulation with low molecular weight heparin and warfarin or rivaroxaban in consult with your doctor.

please consult your doctor before taking any further course of action

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Dr M.S Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar