What could be the causes of pain in the right arm?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 43 years old. I have been experiencing moderate pain in my right arm for the past two days. Since yesterday, I have also had some pain in my chest, on the right side. It hurts when I cough or clear my throat. The pain is not unbearable, but it is not mild either. Two days ago, I felt a bit weak in my right arm, and it felt slightly less responsive when I tried to lift it. Now it feels normal, but the pain persists. I do not have any issues with my regular activities, and I exercise at least every other day. The chest pain could be due to gas, but I am a bit worried. Three people from my department—one junior and two seniors—have had heart attacks in the past four to five months, and one of them passed away.

I get an echocardiogram and TMT test done every year, and all results have been normal. I do not have high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other health issues. However, the colleagues who had heart attacks also had normal echo and TMT results during their annual check-up five months ago. Should I get tested to see if my arteries are clogged? Is it necessary? If so, how can I go about getting this test done?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome on icliniq.com.

I carefully reviewed your medical history and would like to explain that your clinical symptoms do not appear to be cardiac-related. Pain that is triggered by coughing or changes in body posture suggests an extra-cardiac cause, most likely a respiratory inflammation or infection. I recommend discussing with your attending physician (GP or internist) the possibility of conducting a medical examination and additional tests, such as a complete blood count, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect potential inflammation, a chest X-ray, and any other necessary tests.

If you have difficulty expectorating sputum, an expectorant may help. Anti-inflammatory medication, and antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed, will be needed to address your current health issue.

I hope this information has been helpful.

If you have any further questions, feel free to ask again.