Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I just had a baby three weeks ago. Three days ago, I started feeling pain below my left breast, then under my left armpit. The pain then spread to part of my arm, a spot on my neck, and a spot on my shoulder. I read about heart attacks, and I have been under a lot of stress recently.
Could you kindly advise me?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
It is unlikely to be a heart attack, as this pain is atypical. I assume you are not experiencing any shortness of breath. Considering your age group, the possibility of a heart attack is extremely low. Additionally, the pattern of pain is not consistent with that of a heart attack. Heart attack pain typically comes on suddenly, is retrosternal or left-sided, and is often accompanied by symptoms such as sweating and uneasiness. It does not usually persist for three days without treatment.
Possible causes in your case include musculoskeletal pain, cervical issues, pain from the breast itself due to hormonal changes, or stretching of tissues from breast enlargement, among others. Try pressing on the site to see if the pain reappears. If it does, this suggests that the pain is local rather than related to a heart attack.
While it is unlikely to be a heart attack, it is still a good idea to be examined by a local doctor, who may recommend an ECG (electrocardiogram) if necessary. The doctor’s examination will also help assess the possibility of peripartum cardiomyopathy, which typically presents with shortness of breath rather than chest pain.
I hope this helps, and feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
I have no shortness of breath. However, I had monitors during childbirth because I received an epidural, and they said everything looked good.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
Based on all this, it does not seem to be anything serious. Peripartum cardiomyopathy may present later after delivery, but it is also an unlikely possibility since there is no shortness of breath. However, a physical examination by a local doctor will provide confirmation. Overall, from a heart perspective, it does not appear to be worrisome. Also, check for local signs such as redness, swelling, or tenderness.
Regards.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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