constant left arm pain for few days

[babs6767]

Dear Doc, wouldjust like to know if constant left arm pain from shoulder to elbow and down along the backside of the arm with no chest pain at all even with brisk walking is related to heart or probably due to spondalytis which i have. I had done by treadmill test 4 yrs back which was negative. My cholestrol level is within limits only that fasting sugar is at 123 which my physician suggests to tackle by more walking and activity and no sweet intake. what type of pain in left arm is related to heart--that is can u have only nagging dumb pain in left arm with no chest pain and yet it can be related to heart?

[babs6767]

Thanks for ur reply. I have had no history in the past of any heurt related problem. not short of breath-can walk briskly for 30-40 min and on treadmill can do at speed of 5.2 km/hr for 20 min--no pain anywhere in chest region. had an ECG yesterday also-except that bcos of RBBB with an inverted T segment examined by doctor as normal--rest fine.  on had no trace of sugur eurlier--but had good amounts over festivities for last two months and fasting has gone upto 160 which doc advised for complete blackout from sweets and then have another check a week after before deciding on medicine of mild dose.  pain in urm nagging and mild and replicated at points when pressinf from above. my physician says it is spondolysis related as pulse, pressure ure all normal

[SLadylani]

Have you had any heart problems in the past? My first instinct is to look at the signs other than the left arm pain that occur when you're walking or during other daily activities of your daily life. Are you short of breath? Fatigue easily? Those short of things, along with the left arm pain, might indicate a heart related problem, however with arm pain alone, with no shortness of breath, etc, would suggest more of a joint or spinal problem, such as the spondalytis you have. The negative stress treadmill test, though 4 years ago, is a good sign. However,isince this could indicate a serious problem and we are dealing with a serious question, I must refer you to your doctor, for only he/she can do the physical equipment, take your vital signs, and conduct other tests needed, such as an EKG to determine for sure that your heart is not to blame for this. For now what I can suggest is cutting back on the exercise, if it is inducing these symptoms, and look into dietary options to control your cholesterol. I hope this is somewhat helpful, and again, encourage you to schedule an appointment for a physical exam and checkup to sure where this pain is coming from and to help you get treatment so you don't have to live with this. If you have any other questions, definitely send another post, otherwise I wish you well and hope you get this and your pain taken care of soon! Good luck and best wishes :)

Sara RN