Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Why Have I Had A Squeezing Pain In The Upper Left Arm Since Morning?
Question: I am a 57 year old woman. I woke up with a squeezing pain in my upper left arm that has been continuing for a few hours. I don't seem to have any other symptoms. Should I go to the emergency room?
Brief Answer:
Persistent, severe, worsening, associated worrying symptoms should be seen
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
If the pain is severe or worsening then you should be seen, if there are associated worrying symptoms then you should be seen (eg chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations)- then you should be seen.
If you have a history of trauma to the upper limb yesterday- then this is also another reason that you should be assessed.
If the pain is constant but not severe or there are no worrying associated features or trauma then you can consider treating at home and monitoring. If symptoms change, then seek medical care.
Home treatment would consist of:
(1) Rest,
(2) A warm compress to the area to help relax the muscles and ligaments, this would be done 3 to 4 times daily for 15 to 20 mins
(3) Anti inflammatory meds eg naproxen, ibuprofen, cataflam
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Persistent, severe, worsening, associated worrying symptoms should be seen
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
If the pain is severe or worsening then you should be seen, if there are associated worrying symptoms then you should be seen (eg chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations)- then you should be seen.
If you have a history of trauma to the upper limb yesterday- then this is also another reason that you should be assessed.
If the pain is constant but not severe or there are no worrying associated features or trauma then you can consider treating at home and monitoring. If symptoms change, then seek medical care.
Home treatment would consist of:
(1) Rest,
(2) A warm compress to the area to help relax the muscles and ligaments, this would be done 3 to 4 times daily for 15 to 20 mins
(3) Anti inflammatory meds eg naproxen, ibuprofen, cataflam
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
