The heart's pumping action ensures that blood is delivered to all parts of the body; the heart itself needs adequate blood supply to perform its functions effectively. The American College of Cardiology notes that ischemic heart disease can also be referred to as coronary heart disease or coronary artery disease. It describes a condition in which the coronary arteries--vessels that supply blood to the heart--become narrow or clogged, causing an inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle. Many complications can result.
Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when there is complete or severe blockage of blood flow to the heart. The coronary arteries can become narrowed due to accumulation of plaque--a hard substance that is formed from fatty materials and other substances in the body. Because the plaque's surface can be rough and uneven, blood clots often can form at these sites. The National Heart, Lung and Blood institute reports that when the blood clot gets large enough, it can cut off most or all of the blood supply to the heart, and this results in a heart attack.
Angina Pectoris
Many patients with ischemic heart disease experience a condition called angina pectoris. When the coronary arteries are narrowed by plaque, they do not deliver enough blood to the heart. During periods when the heart needs extra oxygen, which it cannot get due to the narrowed coronary arteries, angina occurs. It is described as a crushing or squeezing sensation in the chest, which can be mild or intense.
Arrhythmias
The pumping action of the heart is controlled by electrical impulses generated within the heart. Arrhythmias occur when the pumping action of the heart or the heartbeats become irregular. MayoClinic.com notes that ischemic heart disease can lead to arrhythmias. Inadequate blood supply to the heart as occurs in ischemic heart disease can interfere with the heart's electrical system, leading to irregular heartbeats.
Heart Failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart does not pump enough blood to the body. In ischemic heart disease, heart failure can occur as a result of reduced blood flow to the heart. According to the Mayo Clinic, when the heart is deprived of oxygen-rich blood over an extended period of time, it may become too weak to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
