Symptom 10. Pain in the Left Shoulder or Neck: The Radiating Discomfort
Pain that starts in the chest and then radiates—or moves—to the left shoulder or neck can be a symptom of pericarditis. This sort of pain pattern is significant and can offer your healthcare provider valuable clues about what’s going on in your body.
Pericarditis-related chest pain often isn’t isolated. It can radiate, spreading to the left shoulder or neck. This can occur because the nerves that detect pain in your heart and those in your neck and shoulder are connected. When the pericardium is inflamed, these nerves can get mixed signals, causing you to feel pain in your shoulder or neck.
This type of radiating pain can be quite concerning, especially when it’s intense or prolonged. It’s essential to seek medical help immediately if you experience chest pain that spreads to your left shoulder or neck. These symptoms could indicate a severe condition, including but not limited to pericarditis, and warrant immediate medical attention.
In summary, paying close attention to these and any other unusual symptoms you may experience is crucial. Remember, early detection of pericarditis or any other health condition significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. (10)
