10. Discomfort in Other Parts of the Upper Body – Is it a Warning Sign of Heart Disease?
Pain or discomfort in the arms, left shoulder, elbows, jaw, or back can often suggest heart disease. In some cases, these may even be the only symptoms of a heart attack.
Many people dismiss these symptoms, attributing them to simple muscle pain, rheumatism, or indigestion. However, persistent or recurrent discomfort in these areas could be an early sign of an underlying heart condition, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath or nausea.
It’s important to understand the possible connection between these symptoms and heart disease. The heart, like any organ in your body, requires a continuous supply of oxygen-rich blood. This supply is delivered through the coronary arteries. If these arteries become narrowed or blocked, the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood, leading to chest pain or discomfort known as angina.
However, this discomfort doesn’t remain localized to the chest. It can often radiate to other areas in the upper body, causing pain or discomfort in the arms, left shoulder, elbows, jaw, or back. These areas are supplied by the same network of nerves as the heart. Therefore, when your heart is in distress, the pain can be felt in these areas.
If you experience unexplained, recurrent discomfort in these regions, especially if the discomfort intensifies with physical exertion or emotional stress and subsides with rest, it may be time to consult your doctor. Early detection and management of heart disease can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications, including heart attack and stroke. (10)
