What Causes Electric Shock Like Feeling In My Chest?

Posted on Sat, 25 Jan 2014

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

Sat, 25 Jan 2014 Answered on

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I was sitting in my chair just now when I had a very strong "electric shock" feeling shoot through my left chest and down my left arm. Scared the wits out of me.

Answered by Dr. Shanthi E (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: need more details Detailed Answer: Hello, I need more details to rule out any major cause for what you experienced. Was this feeling associated with intractable chest pain? Are you having difficulty in breathing? are you sweating excessively? Is this feeling persisting or was just for a minute or so? How is your comfort level presently? Did you feel any changes in your heart rate and rhythm at that point? Let me know the details for me to help you better. Regards,

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

Follow up: Dr. Shanthi E (8 minutes later)

I didn't have chest pain, shortness of breath or sweating - just the electric shock feeling which lasted a couple of seconds only. My heart rate and rhythm are normal. I have been suffering from very sore, inflamed ribs on the left-hand side for about a week or so. Could that have had something to do with it?

Answered by Dr. Shanthi E (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer: yes, it is related to inflamed ribs Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for the details. I am glad you have none of these. This does not seem to be related to heart. I am so glad about the same. Yes, it is related to the inflamed ribs. Inflamed ribs is in fact a very painful condition to experience as the pain is sharp, shooting, mimicking severe painful conditions. What you have experienced is most likely related to the inflamed ribs. Please complete the treatment for the same and take adequate rest. I am sure you would be fine soon. take care! Regards,

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