Can chest discomfort and left arm tingling be signs of a heart attack?

Question

Hello doctor,

I noticed a strange sensation in my chest. Now, after consulting with friends, I fear it was a heart attack. My heart felt as though it had a hole in it, and my left arm was tingling all over for ten minutes. I feel alright now, but I am not sure what to do next. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The only symptom you had was tingling in your arm. So, a hole in the heart is unlikely, and a heart attack is also less likely. It might be due to a nerve problem or nerve damage. The first possibility is probably a cervical problem due to the compression of nerves between the spine. Does this pain increase in neck movement? Is it associated with burning, numbness in the arm, or any neck trauma? If yes, then it further supports the diagnosis. I suggest you take nerve vitamins. You will also need some neck physiotherapy. Also, you can get one electrocardiogram (ECG) and then a treadmill test done just to rule out heart disease.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.