Left Arm Pain Anxiety: What it is & How You Can Treat it

Have you ever suddenly felt a sharp stabbing pain in your arm? Or perhaps felt like it was being pricked by thousands of tiny needles, all at once? If so, that could be a sign of left arm pain anxiety. But before you spiral, let us tell you what exactly causes the pain and how you can treat it.

Can Anxiety Cause Pain in Your Left Arm?

You’re probably wondering, can anxiety really cause arm pain? And the answer is yes. An anxiety disorder can have multiple physical symptoms besides a panic attack. Hence, if you suffer from severe anxiety, you too could have felt such an ache.

Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean you can only feel the pain in your left arm. There are various other places the pain can flow towards, but usually, people note it to be on the left side.

There are also times when categorizing the pain can be difficult. For instance, does your arm hurt because of a heart attack? Or is it an oncoming sign of an anxiety attack? These complications can be a bit disorienting.

However, if other heart attack symptoms do not follow the arm pain, then there is no cause for concern. Moreover, anxiety-induced arm pain is chronic, not fleeting, unlike a heart attack.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Did you know anxiety is among the top common mental illnesses in the United States? About 18.1% of the Adult population suffers from an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety symptoms often come and go so fast that you might just chalk it all up to being nervous. However, if left untreated, anxiety attacks can gradually get worse. Here are a few signs that could signify anxiety taking its roots:

  • Sudden Fatigue
  • Irregular Heartbeat
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Muscle Tension
  • Left Arm Pain
  • Cold Sweats
  • Trembling Hands or Legs
  • Mouth going Dry
  • Nausea or Headache

Other Causes for Arm Pain

Believe it or not, anxiety isn’t the only cause of pain. Sometimes, stress can also play a role in making your entire arm go numb. In addition to that, other factors can lead to left arm pain as well, such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Ripped Arm Tendons
  • Heart Attack
  • Gastrointestinal Issues
  • Angina
  • Herniated Disk
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Fracture
  • Muscle Tension or Soreness
  • Arthritis
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • Tendonitis

Treatment for Left Arm Pain Anxiety

You don’t choose to suffer from anxiety by yourself. Nevertheless, you sure can defeat it with proper treatment. If, due to anxiety, the arm pain travels from your shoulder to your hand, or causes your left arm to feel heavy, then stretching it out for a few minutes could help. For long-term solutions, take a look below:

  • Psychotherapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Psychoanalysis
  • Stress Management Classes
  • Use of Anxiety-Relieving Toys
  • Daily Meditation or Exercise
  • Social Interactions
  • Adopting Hobbies as a Distraction
  • Making Lifestyle Changes
  • Anxiety Medication

The Closing Word

In conclusion, pain in the left arm can be caused due to chronic anxiety disorder. Furthermore, you can also call (281) 372-6892 or schedule an appointment with Paramount Family Medical Clinic today. We’ll ensure your health takes priority above all else.