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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Persistent Finger Numbness And Sharp Pain In The Arms And Chest?

Some numbness in my left arm and specifically fingers. I have a history of family heart disease and my father died of a heart attack at 57. I am 62, 5' 7" and 193 pounds. I take Lipator, see a cardiologist every six months (but I am due) and had a stress test about two years ago where tested plus 90%. the problem is a persistent issue with numbness but no sharp pains in my arm or chest.
Fri, 22 May 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. You have family history of heart illness but tested negative in cardiac tests so this rules out any cardiac pathology. Persistent numbness in fingers can occur due to some neuritis or due to entrapment of nerves. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of reason for such persistent symptoms but associated pain should be there.

Such symptoms are common in vitamin B12 deficiency, Hypothyroidism. Get your B12 levels checked and thyroid hormone testing done to rule out these conditions.

Anxiety can also cause such symptoms. You already have some sort of anxiety about getting cardiac illness and this could be the reason for your persistent symptoms of numbness. If medical causes have been ruled out then please visit a psychiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Thanks, Hope this helps you. Take care.

Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi
MD Psychiatry
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What Causes Persistent Finger Numbness And Sharp Pain In The Arms And Chest?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. You have family history of heart illness but tested negative in cardiac tests so this rules out any cardiac pathology. Persistent numbness in fingers can occur due to some neuritis or due to entrapment of nerves. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of reason for such persistent symptoms but associated pain should be there. Such symptoms are common in vitamin B12 deficiency, Hypothyroidism. Get your B12 levels checked and thyroid hormone testing done to rule out these conditions. Anxiety can also cause such symptoms. You already have some sort of anxiety about getting cardiac illness and this could be the reason for your persistent symptoms of numbness. If medical causes have been ruled out then please visit a psychiatrist for evaluation and treatment. Thanks, Hope this helps you. Take care. Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi MD Psychiatry