What Causes Shock Like Sensation On The Rib Cage?

Posted on Fri, 16 Jan 2015

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

Fri, 16 Jan 2015 Answered on

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My wife is experiencing a frequent "shock-like" feeling on the left side below the breast on the ribcage. It comes and goes and can average about 10-30 seconds apart. She is 74 and is on blood pressure med for several years. This just started today. When it shocks, she gives a bit of a jump. No clothing is causing this pin prick type of shock. Her pulse is not rapid and is regular. Any ideas? Never has happened before.

Answered by Dr. Vaibhav Gandhi (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
for left side involvement rule out cardiac cause.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
I have studied your case.
shock like sensation below breast on left side indicate possibility of cardiac involvement.
2 d echo and colour doppler heart will help in diagnosis.
Another possibility of nerve root compression leading to radicular rib pain.
MRI will help in diagnosis.
I will advise you to consult orthopaedic surgeon or MD internal medicine for clinical examination.
Till time take analgesic like paracetamol if required.
I hope I have answered your questions. If you have further questions please feel free to contact us. I will be happy to answer. Take care.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D