Differential Diagnosis for Shoulder Tension and Left Arm Symptoms
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal strain or tension: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of shoulder tension from stress and anxiety, which can cause muscle strain and lead to achy feelings in the left arm. The presence of palpable, movable elbow lymph nodes could be reactive and not necessarily indicative of a serious condition.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Anxiety or stress-related symptoms: The symptoms described could be exacerbated or primarily caused by anxiety or stress, leading to physical manifestations such as muscle tension and perceived fullness under the ribs.
- Costochondritis: This condition, which involves inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone, could explain the fullness under the left ribs, especially if it worsens with sitting down or deep breathing.
- Referred pain from the spine: Issues with the cervical or thoracic spine, such as a herniated disk or spinal stenosis, could refer pain to the arm and cause sensations of fullness or discomfort under the ribs.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lymphoma or other lymphatic malignancies: Although less likely, the presence of palpable lymph nodes warrants consideration of lymphatic cancers. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Thoracic or abdominal malignancies: Tumors in the thoracic or abdominal cavities could cause fullness under the ribs and, in rare cases, refer pain to the arm.
- Pulmonary embolism: While the symptoms do not strongly suggest this, any condition that could cause sudden onset of chest pain or discomfort, especially if worsened by deep breathing or position, should be considered to rule out life-threatening conditions.
- Cardiac conditions: Although the symptoms are not typical, cardiac issues such as pericarditis or myocardial infarction can sometimes present with atypical pain patterns, including referred pain to the arm.
Rare Diagnoses
- Thoracic outlet syndrome: This condition involves compression of the nerves or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib), which could cause arm pain and other symptoms.
- Pancreatic or splenic disorders: Conditions affecting these organs, such as pancreatitis or splenomegaly, could cause fullness under the ribs but would typically be accompanied by other specific symptoms.
- Neurological conditions: Certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy, could cause arm pain and other sensory disturbances, though these would likely be accompanied by additional neurological symptoms.