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What Causes Swelling In The Arms When Diagnosed With Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Posted on Mon, 21 Aug 2017

Question: Hello. Over the course of the last week my right arm began to swell and then my left arm. I was diagnosed with TOS a few days ago and scheduled for some tests. In the meantime, my right leg has swelled. I have also been having stomach upset (I'm highly stressed over this) and haven't been eating. What little I do eat causes a tickle in my thought and brings on a coughing fit. Now I've developed a deep cough all on its own and am producing extremely thick foamy mucus from my lungs. I can't lay down because the tickle starts in the back of my throat and starts a coughing fit. I've never had problems with swelling in the past.

How concerned should I be?

Answered by Dr. Dr. U N Sahoo (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Thoracic outlet syndrome

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your question on HCM

I do understand your concern

“As” per your clinical history is concerned your problem is due to [Thoracic outlet syndrome] and swelling is a part of it. First you may be advised anticoagulant regularly and a muscle relaxants like [ibuprofen] and physiotherapy. If not succeed in conservative treatment then go for decompression in surgical way.

You need few preventive steps like this-:

1)Try to avoid lifting heavy objects

2)If you are over weight then try to reduce weight.

3)Do stretching exercises regularly

Hope that helps and nothing to be worried at all.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. U N Sahoo (3 hours later)

I'm concerned about the leg swelling. I thought TOS only involved the upper extremists. Or am I wrong?

Answered by Dr. Dr. U N Sahoo (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
leg swelling

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your quick reply

“As” per your view is concerned regarding TOS is absolutely right and your leg swelling is due to blood clot only so to confirm it do an ultrasound and D-dimer test. If confirmed you may need IV [heparin infusion] followed by injectable [Enoxaparin] for which you can discuss with your treating doctor.you may use a compression stockings from your feet to knees for leg swelling and do regular walk.

Hope that helps

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj