Broken Heart Syndrome: Its Very Much Real

Broken heart syndrome, also known as stress cardiomyopathy or takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is a temporary heart condition triggered by extreme emotional or physical stressful situations. You must have heard about lovers dying one after the other because one couldn’t take the grief. A lot of people don’t know if something like broken-heart syndrome exists, which makes it an enigmatic ailment.

Here we help you understand the reality of this syndrome and how it can be fatal. People who suffer from ‘broken heart syndrome’ do not generally show grievous symptoms. For instance, their coronary arteries work just fine. They don’t show any other major blockages as well. The matter of the fact is that the patients who suffer from this syndrome suddenly start experiencing the weakening of the heart muscles. This short-lived disruption in the pumping of the heart leads to the change in heart’s shape.

On the other hand, the remaining heart functions normally. That’s why this condition is also known as apical ballooning syndrome. This condition mimics the symptoms of a heart attack, including chest pain and shortness of breath, but it differs significantly in its cause and long-term effects. Understanding this condition is crucial, as it highlights the profound impact stress can have on heart health.

What is Broken Heart Syndrome or Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy?

Broken Heart Syndrome occurs when the heart's left ventricle weakens suddenly due to a surge of stress hormones, such as adrenaline. Unlike a heart attack, there is no blockage in the coronary arteries. This condition is typically reversible with timely treatment and care.

Symptoms of broken heart syndrome

The symptoms of broken heart syndrome can be treated given the diagnosis is made early. These symptoms mostly resemble the symptoms of a heart attack.

The symptoms can resemble those of a heart attack, including:

• Sudden, severe chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fainting (in rare cases)
• Abnormalities occurring in the left ventricle of the heart

• Ballooning of the left ventricle.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention to rule out more serious conditions like a heart attack.

Causes of broken heart syndrome

The exact causes of broken heart syndrome are still unknown. However, healthcare specialists believe that it is generally caused by the abrupt release of stress hormones, especially adrenaline. As a consequence, one’s heart gets damaged temporarily. Interestingly, women suffer from this syndrome more than men.

Broken Heart Syndrome is often linked to a significant emotional or physical stressor, including:

• Loss of a loved one (grief)
• Extreme fear or anger
• Severe illness or surgery
• Financial or work-related stress

Risk Factors of takotsubo cardiomyopathy

• Gender: Women, especially post-menopausal, are more prone to this condition.
• Age: It commonly affects individuals over 50 years of age.
• Psychological health: Pre-existing mental health issues like anxiety or depression or any other mental health issue.
• Neurological health: Those who have suffered from a neurological condition such as seizure are automatically at a greater risk of suffering from broken heart syndrome.

Read more about Heart Attacks Causes

What can trigger broken heart syndrome?

• Stressful emotional event
• Untimely death of a loved one
• A worrisome health diagnosis
• Domestic abuse
• Stage fright
• Loss of job
• Physical conditions like asthma
• Other traumatic experiences.

Differences between broken heart syndrome and heart attack

When heart attack happens, the heart arteries get compromised due to the complete or partial blockage. On the other hand, in a broken heart syndrome, the arteries do not get completely blocked; it is the flow of blood that is reduced.

How is Broken Heart Syndrome Diagnosed?

Doctors use several methods to diagnose this condition:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the heart's electrical activity.
• Blood Tests: Check for markers like troponin, which indicate heart damage.
• Echocardiogram: Reveals abnormal movement in the heart’s walls.
• Coronary Angiogram: Rules out blockages in the coronary arteries.

Some other complications associated with broken heart syndrome include:

• Pulmonary Edema
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Disruptions in the heartbeat
• Heart failure

Read more about - Heart Failure Symptoms in Women vs Men

Treatment Options for Broken Heart Syndrome

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications:

• Medications: Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or diuretics may be prescribed.
• Lifestyle Changes: Stress management techniques, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.
• Mental Health Support: Therapy or counseling to address underlying emotional triggers.

Can Broken Heart Syndrome Be Prevented?

While it may not always be preventable, the following strategies can reduce the risk:

• Practice mindfulness and stress-reducing techniques like yoga or meditation.
• Maintain a strong support system of family and friends.
• Seek professional help if experiencing chronic stress, anxiety, or depression.

Read more about Changes to Make in Lifestyle to Prevent Heart Attack

Conclusion

However, symptoms can be relieved by following certain measures. It is mainly treated with diuretics which help in improving the heart muscle contractions. Generally, there is no surgical procedure involved in its treatment. The best way to treat this disorder is to keep the patient away from any physical/emotional/mental stress. BLK-Max Hospital is the best heart hospital in Delhi.

FAQs About Broken Heart Syndrome or Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

1. Is Broken Heart Syndrome fatal?

While rare, complications like heart failure or arrhythmias can arise. However, most people recover fully within weeks.

2. Can it recur?

Yes, recurrence is possible, but it’s uncommon with proper management and lifestyle adjustments.

3. How is it different from a heart attack?

Broken Heart Syndrome is caused by stress hormones, not artery blockages, making it fundamentally different from a heart attack.

4. Who treats Broken Heart Syndrome?

Cardiologists primarily treat this condition, often collaborating with mental health professionals to address the underlying emotional triggers and ensure comprehensive care.