There are various conditions that can cause sharp left arm pain. Any tissue that comprises the left arm including the muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, bones and blood vessels can trigger left-sided arm pain. The structures outside the arm such as the tissues in the neck, shoulder and chest can also instigate arm pain. The constant use injuries, certain medical issues and trauma are the prevalent causes of sharp left arm pain.
Fracture of the radial head
Fractures on the radial head can instigate sharp left arm pain. These fractures are common injuries that are considered as acute elbow injuries. It is important to note that radial head fractures tend to occur more in women than men. Most cases of radial head fractures can occur among those between the ages of 30-40 years old. One of the most common causes of this fracture is when the individual attempts to break a fall using an outstretched arm and hand. During impact, the force from the fall travels up to the wrist and elbow, thus resulting to the dislocation of the elbow or radial head fractures.
The common indications linked with radial head fractures include swelling of the affected elbow joint, piercing pain on the exterior of the elbow, diminished range of motion of the elbow and inability to turn the palm upwards or downwards. You can learn how to properly manage a fracture by enrolling in a first aid course today.
Myocardial infarction
Myocardial infarction or a heart attack can trigger sharp left arm pain. This occurs once the coronary blood vessels are blocked. The inadequate flow of blood and oxygen to the heart causes irreversible damage to the heart muscles along with other accompanying symptoms.
The usual indications linked with myocardial infarction that the individual will experience include sharp pain in the arms, neck, shoulder or jaw as well as chest pain, dizziness, anxiety, feeling of impending doom, vomiting, nausea, shortness of breath and profuse sweating. The possible risk factors for myocardial infarction include elevated blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Postherpetic neuralgia
It is important to note that postherpetic neuralgia can trigger sharp left arm pain. This is a painful condition that affects the skin and nerves. The symptoms are usually severe enough to disrupt the appetite and sleeping pattern of the individual.
Postherpetic neuralgia typically develops after the individual experiences an episode of shingles which is a condition triggered by the chickenpox virus. The pain caused by postherpetic neuralgia lasts after the shingles-related rash and blisters have vanished. Many individuals who suffer from the condition are older than 60 years old. The usual indications include pain in the affected area that is piercing, aching or burning along with itchiness, hypersensitivity to light, muscle weakness and even paralysis in some cases.