Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery

Q: Leg Pain and Chest Discomfort After COVID-19 Recovery

Hello： The sensations of a strong heartbeat, discomfort in your left calf, and chest tightness with stabbing pain may be related to a confirmed COVID-19 infection, specifically long COVID symptoms. <br>Currently, the management of long COVID sequelae primarily focuses on symptom

Tingling in the left calf and chest?

Hello, after being diagnosed with COVID, I noticed that my heart beats very strongly.
I have seen a cardiologist who performed an electrocardiogram and monitored my heart rhythm, and after blood tests, the doctor said everything was normal.
Recently, I have noticed that the area behind my left leg near the joint is particularly prone to soreness, and occasionally I feel a sharp pain.
Sometimes it feels like I might cramp in the front of my leg.
I try to stretch my legs, but it doesn't always help.
Although the soreness doesn't last long, it occurs quite frequently.
Just now, I jogged a little to catch a train and rested for about half an hour; I only felt more soreness in my left leg (since I haven't exercised in a long time).
I'm not sure what the problem is, and I wonder if this condition in my calf is related to my heart.
Additionally, I have recently been experiencing alternating sharp pains in my left and right chest, mostly on the left side.
Previously, when I visited the cardiologist, they listened to my heart and said there were no murmurs, concluding it was nerve pain.
I also experienced chest tightness and later found out it could be gastroesophageal reflux, so I consulted a gastroenterologist.
However, the sharp pain has not resolved.
The pain feels like a slight bruise when I massage my chest with my hand.
I would appreciate your insights on this matter.
Thank you.

Xiao Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/23

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: The sensations of a strong heartbeat, discomfort in your left calf, and chest tightness with stabbing pain may be related to a confirmed COVID-19 infection, specifically long COVID symptoms.
Currently, the management of long COVID sequelae primarily focuses on symptom control.
Since your cardiac evaluations did not reveal any significant abnormalities, cardiac issues can largely be ruled out.
The discomfort in your left calf is likely not related to the heart.
Additionally, your chest discomfort may warrant consideration of a pulmonary issue, so it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist.
Lastly, some hospitals have established specialized clinics for long COVID sequelae, and it is recommended that you seek evaluation and management there.

Reply Date: 2022/12/23

More Info

After recovering from COVID-19, many individuals report a variety of lingering symptoms, often referred to as "long COVID." These symptoms can include fatigue, muscle pain, joint discomfort, and even cardiovascular issues. Your experience of leg pain and chest discomfort is not uncommon among those who have had COVID-19, and it is essential to understand the potential causes and implications of these symptoms.

Firstly, the leg pain you are experiencing, particularly in the area near the joint, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the viral infection may have led to inflammation in the muscles or joints, which can cause discomfort and pain. Additionally, prolonged periods of inactivity during illness can lead to muscle stiffness and weakness, making it easier to experience pain when you do engage in physical activity, such as running to catch a train. Stretching and gentle exercises can help alleviate some of this discomfort, but it is crucial to listen to your body and not overexert yourself.

The sensation of "pins and needles" or cramping in your leg could also indicate a nerve-related issue. Nerve irritation or compression can occur due to various reasons, including muscle tightness or postural changes that may have developed during your illness. If the pain persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or a physical therapist, who can assess your symptoms more thoroughly and recommend appropriate interventions.

Regarding your chest discomfort, it is reassuring that you have already undergone evaluations by a cardiologist, including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests, which have returned normal results. This suggests that your heart is functioning well, and the symptoms you are experiencing may not be directly related to a cardiac issue. The intermittent sharp pain you describe, particularly if it feels like a bruise when you press on it, could indeed be related to musculoskeletal factors, such as muscle strain or costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum.

Additionally, you mentioned experiencing chest tightness and discomfort that you suspect may be related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD can cause symptoms that mimic cardiac pain, including chest discomfort, especially after eating or when lying down. If you have not yet discussed this with your healthcare provider, it may be worth exploring treatment options for GERD, which can include dietary modifications, medications to reduce stomach acid, and lifestyle changes.

In summary, while your symptoms of leg pain and chest discomfort can be concerning, they are not uncommon in the context of post-COVID recovery. It is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. A multidisciplinary approach involving a primary care physician, physical therapist, and possibly a gastroenterologist or neurologist may provide you with the best care and management strategies. Remember to prioritize rest, hydration, and gentle physical activity as you continue to recover from COVID-19.

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