A burning sensation in the left arm can manifest in various ways, from a tingling or prickling feeling to a radiating warmth, numbness, or sharp pain. This uncomfortable sensation occurs when nerves are irritated or damaged. While often temporary and harmless, a burning arm sensation can sometimes signal a more significant underlying health issue. The specific nature and accompanying symptoms can help determine its origin.
Common Explanations
Less severe reasons frequently account for a burning sensation in the left arm, often involving temporary nerve irritation or localized tissue responses.
Muscle strain or overuse often results in a burning feeling due to microtears in muscle fibers and associated inflammation. This sensation can develop after strenuous activity or repetitive motions, such as those involved in certain sports or occupations.
Nerve compression, or a “pinched nerve,” is another common cause, where pressure on a nerve disrupts its normal signaling. Carpal tunnel syndrome, affecting the median nerve in the wrist, can cause tingling, numbness, and pain in the hand and fingers, sometimes extending into the arm. Cubital tunnel syndrome involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, leading to pain, tingling, and numbness, particularly in the ring and little fingers.
Minor skin irritation or injury can directly trigger a localized burning sensation. This includes abrasions, minor burns, or allergic reactions from contact with irritants.
Inflammation of tendons (tendinitis) or fluid-filled sacs (bursitis) around joints can also radiate burning pain into the arm. For instance, shoulder tendinitis or bursitis can cause pain in the shoulder region that may extend down the arm, especially with movement. This occurs when these structures become inflamed from repetitive stress or injury.
Anxiety or stress can sometimes manifest as physical sensations, including burning or tingling in the limbs. These symptoms are part of the body’s physiological response to psychological distress.
Serious Underlying Conditions
A burning sensation in the left arm can also be a symptom of more serious medical conditions that require prompt attention.
Cardiac events, particularly a heart attack (myocardial infarction), can present with left arm pain or a burning sensation. This occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is severely reduced or blocked. Accompanying symptoms often include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain radiating to the jaw or back.
Neurological conditions that damage nerves, known as peripheral neuropathy, frequently cause chronic burning sensations. This nerve damage can result from various factors, including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, or certain medications. It can affect nerves in the hands and arms, leading to burning, tingling, and numbness, often worsening at night.
Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, can lead to a burning sensation that precedes the appearance of a characteristic blistering rash. The virus affects nerve pathways, and the burning pain can be intense, sometimes persisting even after the rash has healed, a condition called postherpetic neuralgia.
Circulation issues, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), can also cause burning or cramping in the arms. Although more common in the legs, PAD involves narrowed arteries that reduce blood flow to the extremities. The burning sensation results from insufficient oxygen reaching the muscles and tissues, particularly during exertion.
Cervical radiculopathy, often termed a “pinched nerve” in the neck, occurs when a nerve root in the cervical spine is compressed or irritated. This condition can cause sharp, burning pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates down the arm into the hand or fingers. Neck movements can often worsen these symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Help
Knowing when to consult a healthcare professional for a burning sensation in the left arm is important for appropriate care. The urgency depends on the severity and accompanying symptoms.
Immediate emergency care is necessary if a sudden, severe burning pain in the arm is accompanied by specific red flag symptoms. These include chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold sweats, or nausea, which can indicate a heart attack. Additionally, sudden weakness or numbness in the arm or face, or a change in consciousness, could signal a stroke and requires immediate medical attention.
Scheduling a doctor’s visit is advisable if the burning sensation persists for more than a few days without improvement or worsens over time. It is also recommended if the sensation is accompanied by new or increasing numbness, tingling, or weakness. If the burning interferes with daily activities, occurs after an injury, or is accompanied by a rash or skin changes, a medical evaluation is appropriate.
When discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider, describe the onset, duration, and intensity of the burning sensation. Provide details about factors that aggravate or relieve the symptoms, as well as any other accompanying sensations, to assist in accurate diagnosis. This helps the doctor determine the underlying cause and recommend the most suitable course of action.