A Rare case of pregnancy with Heart Disease at Term Presenting With Pain in the Neck Radiating to Right Upper Extremity

Abstract

 Pregnancy complicated by heart disease poses a significant challenge due to the physiological changes that can worsen pre-existing cardiac conditions. We encountered a rare case of a pregnant woman at term who sought medical attention for neck pain radiating to her right upper extremity, which led to the discovery of an underlying heart disease complication. This case highlights the critical need for a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetrics, cardiology, and anesthesia to optimize outcomes for both the mother and fetus in complex pregnancies complicated by underlying heart disease.During pregnancy, the cardiovascular system undergoes significant changes to meet the demands of the developing fetus. These changes include an increase in blood volume, heart rate, and cardiac output, as well as a decrease in systemic vascular resistance. While these adaptations are normal, they can be detrimental to women with underlying heart conditions, such as valvular disease, congenital heart defects, or cardiomyopathy.In our case, the patient's symptoms of neck pain and radiating discomfort were initially concerning for musculoskeletal issues or nerve impingement. However, further evaluation revealed that she had a previously undiagnosed heart condition that was exacerbated by the physiological changes of pregnancy. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for cardiac complications in pregnant women, especially those with known heart disease or risk factors.Managing pregnant women with heart disease requires a collaborative effort between obstetricians, cardiologists, and anesthesiologists. Close monitoring of maternal cardiac function, fetal well-being, and the potential effects of medications and anesthesia is crucial.