Expert: David Richardson - 12/20/2006

Question
I am a 36 year old female with great blood pressure and good cholesterol levels. I recently felt like something was in my throat after running. I started having severe pain in the middle of my chest and back. It then went to my left arm and neck. My hands lost all color and my face was paler and flushed. My pain is still in my arm and my arm and hand are still numb and tingly. I had no stomach pain and no burning in my throat at all.  What could this be?

Answer
Dear Esparza,

Too many possibilities.  If you are very tall and thin, go at once to a doctor and ask about Marfan's.  If not tall and thin, you need to go to a doctor to figure it all out, but not much hurry for a 36-year-old woman.  It will probably turn out to trouble with vertebrae or discs in your neck.  I hope it will all clear up and you'll feel well soon.

Please write back if you think I could help any.  I'm sorry this note is so little help.

David Richardson