Why Is My Arm Burning – Dossia Health

Why Is My Arm Burning?

Experiencing a burning sensation in your arm can be quite discomforting and alarming. This sensation can vary in intensity and duration, and may occur suddenly or persistently. While there can be various causes behind a burning arm, it is essential to understand the possible reasons and seek appropriate medical attention if necessary.

Causes of a Burning Arm:

1. Nerve Compression: One common cause of arm burning is nerve compression, such as in carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome. These conditions occur when the nerves in the wrist or elbow become compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms like burning, tingling, or numbness.

2. Peripheral Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It can cause a burning sensation in the arms, along with other symptoms like weakness, numbness, or shooting pain. Diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and certain medications are among the common causes of peripheral neuropathy.

3. Brachial Plexus Injury: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that control movement and sensation in the arm. Injury or trauma to this network can result in a burning sensation, along with muscle weakness or loss of movement in the affected arm.

4. Shingles: Shingles is a viral infection caused the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. It can result in a burning and painful rash, typically occurring on one side of the body, including the arm. Shingles can be accompanied flu-like symptoms, such as fever and fatigue.

5. Radiculopathy: Radiculopathy occurs when a nerve root in the spine becomes compressed or inflamed. This condition can cause a burning sensation in the arm, along with radiating pain, numbness, or weakness. It is commonly associated with conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

6. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): PAD is a condition characterized narrowed arteries, typically in the legs. However, it can also affect the arms, leading to poor blood flow and a burning sensation. Other symptoms may include coldness, weakness, or cramping in the arm.

7. Raynaud’s Disease: Raynaud’s disease is a condition where certain areas of the body, usually the fingers or toes, experience reduced blood flow due to spasms in blood vessels. In some cases, it can also affect the arms, causing a burning sensation, numbness, or discoloration of the skin.

8. Allergies or Irritants: Allergic reactions to certain substances or exposure to irritants can cause skin inflammation and a burning sensation. Contact dermatitis, a type of skin inflammation, can result from contact with allergens or irritants like chemicals, metals, or fabrics.

9. Overuse or Muscle Strain: Frequent repetitive motions or overuse of the arm muscles can lead to muscle strain or inflammation, causing a burning sensation. This is particularly common in individuals involved in activities that require repetitive arm movements, such as sports, manual labor, or typing.

10. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Psychological factors like anxiety or panic attacks can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including a burning sensation in the arms. These symptoms often occur alongside other psychological signs, such as racing heart, shortness of breath, or feelings of impending doom.

Common Questions and Answers:

1. Can anxiety cause a burning arm?
Yes, anxiety or panic attacks can result in physical symptoms, including a burning sensation in the arms.

2. Is a burning arm a sign of a heart attack?
While a burning arm can be associated with a heart attack, it is often accompanied other symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea.

3. Can poor circulation cause a burning arm?
Yes, conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD) or Raynaud’s disease can lead to reduced blood flow and cause a burning sensation in the arms.

4. Can a pinched nerve cause a burning arm?
Yes, nerve compression, such as in carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome, can result in a burning sensation in the arm.

5. What can help relieve a burning arm caused overuse?
Resting the affected arm, applying ice or heat packs, and practicing gentle stretching exercises can help relieve a burning arm caused overuse or muscle strain.

6. Is a burning arm a symptom of diabetes?
Yes, peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes and can cause a burning sensation in the arms.

7. Can shingles cause a burning arm?
Yes, shingles can cause a burning and painful rash, typically occurring on one side of the body, including the arm.