Broken heart syndrome

Broken heart syndrome, also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or stress cardiomyopathy, is a temporary heart condition often brought on by stressful situations, such as the death of a loved one. The condition can also be triggered by serious physical illness or surgery. It may also be called apical ballooning syndrome, multivessel coronary spasm or simply stress-induced cardiomyopathy.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of broken heart syndrome are similar to those of a heart attack and may include chest pain and shortness of breath. However, while a heart attack is typically caused by blocked coronary arteries, broken heart syndrome is often triggered by intense emotional or physical stress.

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of broken heart syndrome is unclear. It's thought that a surge of stress hormones, such as adrenaline, might temporarily damage the hearts of some people. This damage may be caused by the heart's reaction to a surge of stress hormones. In broken heart syndrome, a part of your heart temporarily enlarges and doesn't pump well, while the rest of your heart functions normally or with even more forceful contractions.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of broken heart syndrome is often through tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, coronary angiogram, and cardiac MRI. These tests can help distinguish broken heart syndrome from a heart attack.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for broken heart syndrome typically involves medications to help alleviate the symptoms. These may include beta blockers to slow the heart rate, diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, and ACE inhibitors to help improve heart function.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

Most people who experience broken heart syndrome recover completely with no long-term heart damage. However, in rare cases, broken heart syndrome can be life-threatening.

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Brown atrophy of the heart

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Keshan disease

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Loeffler endocarditis

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Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis

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