The most common cause of arm pain during a heart attack is a blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries that leads to the heart muscle not getting enough oxygen and nutrients.
A spasm in a coronary artery can also cause arm pain during a heart attack as this temporary contraction of the muscle in the artery wall can reduce or cut off blood flow to the heart.
Inflammation of the coronary arteries, known as coronary artery disease, can also cause arm pain during a heart attack. This condition occurs when the arteries become narrowed or blocked due to a build-up of plaque.
When the heart muscle becomes damaged during a heart attack, it can cause pain in the arms, as well as other parts of the body.
Stress or anxiety can cause muscle tension, which can lead to arm pain and it might go away when the stress or anxiety has reduced.
Arm pain can also be caused by injuries or strains, such as a muscle strain or a fracture and might not always be due to a heart attack.
There are many other medical conditions that can cause arm pain, including arthritis, nerve damage, and infections.