Five Main Reasons for Heart Problems - Healthy fact 1. High Blood Pressure High blood pressure is a condition where the force of blood flowing through the arteries is greater than the natural elasticity of the artery wall. This causes the arteries to become stiff and narrow, restricting the flow of blood. As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. 2. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, narrowing them over time. When the arteries are narrowed, they may not provide enough oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. if the blockage is severe, the heart muscle may die. CAD can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, irregular heartbeat, and even death. 3. Stroke Strokes occur when a blood clot blocks an artery supplying blood to the brain. A stroke can happen suddenly without warning. Symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, leg, or one side