Is Chest Pain and Limb Numbness Due to Anxiety or Something Else?

Q: Is Chest Pain and Limb Numbness Due to Anxiety or Something Else?

Dear Ms. <br>Lee： <br>1. <br>Based on your statements, the likelihood of myocardial ischemia, coronary artery disease, stroke, aortic dissection, pneumothorax, pulmonary embolism, spinal nerve root pathology, or musculoskeletal disorders is very low. <br>Of course, a diagnosis ca

Is chest pain and numbness in the left arm and leg due to anxiety?

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing sudden chest pain in the middle of my chest on the night of May 26th.
It was most painful that night, to the point where I couldn't tolerate it and took a Tylenol.
After a few days, the pain gradually subsided, but occasionally I still feel a little pain that goes away after a while.
Then, last night, June 6th, I began to occasionally feel a bit of numbness in my left arm, left calf, and left cheek, as if the blood flow was restricted.
However, my mouth is not drooping, and I do not have difficulty breathing or vision problems.
I do not have any chronic illnesses or other diseases, but I did see a doctor last year due to anxiety related to job searching, and I took medication for 1-2 months but stopped afterward.
My body has not shown any other abnormalities.
The symptoms started on the night of May 26th, and I'm unsure if they are related to increased anxiety due to being at home during the pandemic, or if it could be another illness.
However, because of the pandemic, I am hesitant to go to a hospital or clinic, so I wanted to ask for advice.
Should I just relax and rest for now, or should I seek medical attention? If I do seek medical attention, which department should I visit? What precautions should I take to stay safe? I've been feeling uneasy due to these physical symptoms in recent days, so I appreciate your response.
Thank you.

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/07

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Lee:
1.
Based on your statements, the likelihood of myocardial ischemia, coronary artery disease, stroke, aortic dissection, pneumothorax, pulmonary embolism, spinal nerve root pathology, or musculoskeletal disorders is very low.
Of course, a diagnosis cannot be established solely based on the patient's statements.

2.
The chest pain you experienced on May 26 may be related to neuromuscular pain; however, definitive examinations are still necessary.

3.
I personally believe that you may be experiencing a recurrence of anxiety disorder; due to the heightened stress from the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals are under significant pressure, which can lead to psychosomatic symptoms.
Therefore, I recommend that you consult with your previous physician or your family doctor for further discussion before making any decisions.

Reply Date: 2021/06/07

More Info

Chest pain and limb numbness can be concerning symptoms, and it's understandable that you're feeling anxious about them. Based on your description, it seems that your symptoms began suddenly on May 26, with chest pain that has since diminished but occasionally returns. You also mentioned experiencing numbness in your left arm, leg, and face, which can be alarming.
First and foremost, it's important to recognize that chest pain can have various causes, ranging from anxiety and stress to more serious medical conditions such as heart problems. Given your history of anxiety, it's possible that your symptoms could be related to anxiety, especially if they coincide with stressful life events, such as job searching during the pandemic. Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms like chest pain, numbness, and tingling sensations. This is often referred to as somatic symptom disorder, where psychological distress presents as physical symptoms.

However, it is crucial to rule out any serious medical conditions, particularly when it comes to chest pain. The fact that you experienced significant pain on the first night and then it gradually subsided is somewhat reassuring, but the recurrence of symptoms warrants further evaluation. Symptoms such as numbness in the limbs, especially if they are unilateral (affecting one side of the body), can sometimes indicate neurological issues or vascular problems, which should not be overlooked.

Given your symptoms, I recommend that you seek medical attention. It would be prudent to visit a healthcare provider who can conduct a thorough evaluation. You may want to consider seeing a primary care physician first, who can assess your symptoms and determine if you need to be referred to a specialist, such as a cardiologist or neurologist.
In terms of safety during the pandemic, many healthcare facilities have implemented strict protocols to protect patients, including social distancing measures, mask requirements, and sanitization procedures. You can also inquire about telehealth options, which allow you to consult with a physician from the comfort of your home. This can be a good way to discuss your symptoms without the added stress of being in a healthcare setting.

In the meantime, focusing on relaxation techniques may help alleviate some of your anxiety. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, and gentle physical activity can be beneficial. It's also important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and engage in activities that you enjoy to help manage stress levels.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to anxiety, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Taking proactive steps to address your health concerns is crucial, and seeking medical advice will provide you with clarity and peace of mind.

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