HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Tingling Pain In The Left Side Of The Chest?

default
Posted on Wed, 19 Jul 2017
Question: Hi

Last night I noticed very tiny tingles of pain on the left side of my chest about under my nipple.

They are so mild I only notice when I am laying down and resting. They don't seem to be associated with movement.

They come about every 5 - 15 sec. I am always active - biking for about 2 hrs a day. I have not noticed any problems - actually feel really fit climbing hills on my bike. No shortness of breath.

thanks XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
I would explain as follows:

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

Welcome on HCM!

I carefully passed through your question and would explain that your symptoms do not seem to be related to any cardiac disorders.

A pinched nerve or gastro-esophageal reflux could be the cause of your troubles.

I would recommend trying an antiacid or a PPI (omprazole, esomeprazole, etc.). If your symptoms are relieved by these drugs, it would indicate possible gastro-esophageal reflux or gastritis underlying your complaints.

If your symptoms persist, I would recommend consulting with your attending physician for a careful physical exam and some tests:

- a resting ECG
- a chest X ray study
- a cervical spine x ray study to investigate for possible chronic degeneration of the cervical spine, which can lead to nerve pain in this region
- complete blood count for anemia
- thyroid hormone levels for thyroid dysfunction
- blood electrolytes for electrolyte imbalance.

A nerve conduction study may be needed, especially if suspicions of a pinched nerve are raised during physical exam.

You should discuss with your doctor on the above issues.

Kind regards,

Dr. Iliri

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Ilir Sharka (20 hours later)
Hi there

- I have whiplash from a car accident and my neck and back have gradually stiffened up all day. I have a pinched brachial plexus on the right side - so not sure if the pain on my left chest is from it or is just tension from neck and back which has not spread to both sides of chest. So seems like you are right. I have taken advil and will see my physio tomorrow

thanks
XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (47 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
I would recommend as follows:

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

I am glad to have been helpful to you!

If the problem persists, I would recommend holding a cervical collar and consulting with your doctor for some other tests: a cervical spine MRI study and a nerve conduction study.

Painkillers ( acetaminophen and ibuprofen) will help.

If you have any other questions, let me know about everything!

Wishing all the best,

Dr.Iliri

Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Ilir Sharka

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 9536 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Tingling Pain In The Left Side Of The Chest?

Brief Answer: I would explain as follows: Detailed Answer: Dear XXXXXXX Welcome on HCM! I carefully passed through your question and would explain that your symptoms do not seem to be related to any cardiac disorders. A pinched nerve or gastro-esophageal reflux could be the cause of your troubles. I would recommend trying an antiacid or a PPI (omprazole, esomeprazole, etc.). If your symptoms are relieved by these drugs, it would indicate possible gastro-esophageal reflux or gastritis underlying your complaints. If your symptoms persist, I would recommend consulting with your attending physician for a careful physical exam and some tests: - a resting ECG - a chest X ray study - a cervical spine x ray study to investigate for possible chronic degeneration of the cervical spine, which can lead to nerve pain in this region - complete blood count for anemia - thyroid hormone levels for thyroid dysfunction - blood electrolytes for electrolyte imbalance. A nerve conduction study may be needed, especially if suspicions of a pinched nerve are raised during physical exam. You should discuss with your doctor on the above issues. Kind regards, Dr. Iliri