Shoulder/arm pain

  I'm a 51 year old female who's experience pain in my should and upper left arm for several weeks.  In the last week, it's extended in to my hand, particularly affecting my thumb. In the last two days, I've also developed a tightening in my lower chest.  I had been attributing all this to pulled muscles -- I distinctly recall stretching the wrong way a few weeks ago and actually hearing something "crack" or pull in my upper left arm.  do I need to worry about any of this?  My blood pressure is normal; my cholesterol, while elevated, is not extreme.
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Dear Linda
It is conceivable that this is angina, though it sounds more like a musculoskeletal injury. A physical examination by a doctor would be useful. Even if it is not your heart, it would be worthwhile to get your pain checked out.
I would suggest that you call your doctor and make an appointment to be evaluated.
I hope this is useful. Feel free to write back. I wish you the best of luck.
If you would like to set up an appointment with one of our cardiologists here at the Cleveland Clinic please feel free to call 1-800-CCF-CARE.
Information provided in the Heart Forum is intended for general medical informational purposes only. Actual diagnosis and treatment of any particular medical condition can only be made by your physician(s).