What causes left arm pain originating from the heart?

Apr 24, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Common causes of left arm pain due to heart problems include myocardial ischemia or myocardial infarction, pericarditis, and arrhythmias. When the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked, it can lead to myocardial ischemia or infarction, which may cause pain in the left arm because the nerves of the heart and the left arm are both innervated by the same nerve pathways. The pericardium is the membrane that surrounds the heart.

Common cardiac causes of left arm pain include myocardial ischemia or myocardial infarction, pericarditis, and arrhythmias. The details are as follows:

1. Myocardial ischemia or myocardial infarction: When the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked, it can lead to myocardial ischemia or infarction, which may cause pain in the left arm. This occurs because the nerves of the heart and the left arm are both innervated by the same nerve pathways.

2. Pericarditis: The pericardium is the membrane surrounding the heart. Inflammation of the pericardium may cause left arm pain due to irritation of surrounding nerves and tissues.

3. Arrhythmias: Certain arrhythmias (such as atrial fibrillation) can cause blood to pool and clot within the heart. These clots may travel into arteries, causing blockages in blood flow, leading to left arm pain and other symptoms.

In addition, left arm pain may also result from conditions such as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease or diabetes. It is important to note that these symptoms may also be associated with other diseases. Therefore, if left arm pain or other discomfort occurs, prompt medical evaluation is recommended to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan.


Related Articles

View All