Question
I'm not sure where exactly to ask this question so I figured this was my best bet. Starting about 3 days ago I have this horrible tingling/tickling sensation in my right armpit, and only my right armpit. I tend to not experience it until I decide to lay down. I thought this would go away with time but it's been keeping me up for hours laying in bed until I'm too exhausted to stay awake. I have no other symptoms that I'm aware of that could contribute to this. I'm a fairly healthy 18 year old male, I smoke about half a pack to a full pack of cigarettes a day and occasionally drink caffeinated beverages (mainly soda). I'll fill in any other gaps as questions are asked of me. I can't yet go to a doctor as I have recently moved and lack any sort of insurance and a job. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer
Hi Trevr,

Most likely it is nerve root compression at the neck or between the clavical and first rib. Another name for this is thoracic outlet syndrome or TOS. Best thing to do is have someone pull up on the back of your head and jaw (lifting head from shoulders) to see if it is in your neck. If the tingling is decreased or stopped, it is in your neck. The test for TOS is more complicated and would involve a physician. I would do the test and ice down the neck until you can see a doctor. Also, change your sleeping hygeine so your pillows are higher or not as high and see if that makes a difference. If you need furthur help, please don't hesitate to ask.

Good Luck
Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com