Broken-heart syndrome
Broken-heart Syndrome Broken-heart syndrome, also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is a temporary heart condition that is often brought on by stressful situations and extreme emotions. It can mimic a heart attack, but it is usually reversible and not caused by blocked coronary arteries.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Broken-heart syndrome is characterized by a sudden weakening of the heart muscle, leading to symptoms similar to those of a heart attack, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. However, unlike a heart attack, there is no evidence of blocked coronary arteries in broken-heart syndrome.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of broken-heart syndrome can include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Fainting
These symptoms can occur suddenly and are often triggered by an intense emotional or physical event.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of broken-heart syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a surge of stress hormones, such as adrenaline, that temporarily affect the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Common triggers include:
- The death of a loved one
- A serious medical diagnosis
- A significant financial loss
- A natural disaster
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of broken-heart syndrome typically involves:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Blood tests
- Echocardiogram
- Coronary angiography
These tests help differentiate broken-heart syndrome from a heart attack and assess the heart's function.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for broken-heart syndrome focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting heart function. This may include:
- Medications such as beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors
- Lifestyle modifications
- Stress management techniques
Most patients recover fully within weeks to months, with no lasting damage to the heart.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for broken-heart syndrome is generally good, with most individuals experiencing a full recovery. However, in rare cases, complications such as heart failure or arrhythmias can occur.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
Broken-heart syndrome is more common in women, particularly those over the age of 50. It is estimated to account for 1-2% of all cases of suspected acute coronary syndrome.
Research[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms of broken-heart syndrome and developing more effective treatments. Studies are also exploring the role of genetics and the impact of different types of stress on the condition.
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
- [American Heart Association - Broken-heart syndrome](https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy/what-is-cardiomyopathy-in-adults/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy-broken-heart-syndrome)
- [Mayo Clinic - Broken-heart syndrome](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-heart-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20354617)
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Broken-heart syndrome is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
