Overview
Broken heart syndrome is a temporary heart condition often brought on by stressful situations and extreme emotions. It can also be triggered by a serious physical illness or surgery. The condition briefly interrupts the way the heart pumps blood and can cause symptoms that mimic a heart attack, such as sudden chest pain and shortness of breath. Broken heart syndrome affects just part of the heart, and medicines are used to treat its symptoms. The exact cause of broken heart syndrome is unclear, but it's thought to involve a surge of stress hormones. People who have experienced broken heart syndrome should seek medical attention if they have persistent chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeats, or shortness of breath.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of broken heart syndrome can mimic those of a heart attack and may include chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid or irregular heartbeats. Other symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, or a feeling of heaviness in the upper body. It's important to note that if you experience any persistent chest pain, you should seek medical attention as it could be due to a heart attack.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for broken heart syndrome (also known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy) include:
- Sex: Women are more likely to develop broken heart syndrome than men.
- Age: Most people who experience broken heart syndrome are older than 50.
- Mental health conditions: People with anxiety or depression, or those who have had these conditions in the past, may be at a higher risk.
- Intensive physical or emotional events: Sudden illness, major surgery, sudden broken bone, death of a loved one, strong arguments, or other intense emotional events can trigger broken heart syndrome. Remember that broken heart syndrome is not related to the emotional pain of a broken heart, but rather its name is derived from the characteristic change in the shape of the heart's left ventricle, which resembles a Japanese octopus pot called a takotsubo.
Development
Broken heart syndrome, also known as stress cardiomyopathy, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, apical ballooning syndrome, or recurrent Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, develops as a result of extreme emotional or physical stress. During this condition, the heart temporarily enlarges and doesn't work as efficiently, often mimicking the symptoms of a heart attack. In broken heart syndrome, the heart arteries are not blocked, as opposed to heart attacks which are usually caused by a complete or near-complete blockage of a heart artery. The reduced blood flow in the heart arteries may contribute to the development of the condition. Several factors may increase the risk of developing broken heart syndrome, such as advanced age, mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, and specific medications like emergency medicines used to treat severe allergic reactions or asthma attacks, nasal decongestants, and illegal stimulant drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider about the medications you're taking and their potential risks and side effects to minimize the risk of developing broken heart syndrome or any other cardiac issues.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you have persistent chest pain or other symptoms that mimic a heart attack, such as shortness of breath, you should see a doctor immediately, as persistent chest pain could be due to a heart attack. In such cases, call 911 or emergency services. Additionally, call your healthcare provider if you experience a very rapid or irregular heartbeat or shortness of breath.
Diagnosis
To diagnose broken heart syndrome, the healthcare provider will examine you and ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. They may also request blood tests to check for higher levels of cardiac enzymes, perform an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) to measure the electrical activity of the heart, and possibly an echocardiogram, a Cardiac MRI, or a coronary angiogram to visualize the heart's condition and rule out other issues.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of broken heart syndrome include backup of fluid into the lungs (pulmonary edema), low blood pressure, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), heart failure, and blood clots in the heart.
Home Remedies
There is no specific home remedy recommended for broken heart syndrome (also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or stress cardiomyopathy). It's essential to seek medical attention and follow the advice of your healthcare provider. Treatment for broken heart syndrome typically involves medications to manage symptoms and address the underlying stress or physical illness causing the condition. Beta blockers or similar medications may be prescribed to help prevent future episodes. In general, managing stress through exercise, mindfulness, and support groups can help improve heart health and may help prevent broken heart syndrome. However, these are not specific home remedies for the condition itself. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.
Treatment
Treatments for broken heart syndrome typically involve addressing symptoms and managing risk factors. Medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms and prevent further episodes. These may include:
- Beta blockers: These medications help block the harmful effects of stress hormones on the heart, reducing blood pressure and heart rate.
- ACE inhibitors: These medications can help improve blood flow and reduce stress on the heart.
- Diuretics: In cases where there is fluid buildup in the lungs or other parts of the body, diuretics can help reduce fluid retention.
- Anti-anxiety medications: If anxiety or stress is contributing to the condition, anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed. In addition to medications, treatment may involve addressing underlying risk factors, such as managing stress, treating mental health conditions, and modifying lifestyle factors. It is essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatments based on individual needs and circumstances.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for broken heart syndrome, you should:
- Have a family member or friend accompany you to the hospital to help you remember information.
- Share important personal information, such as symptoms, stressors, medical history, and medications.
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions and follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
- Write down your symptoms, personal information, and a list of medications you're taking.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, such as asking about the cause of your symptoms and any necessary tests or treatments. Remember to be open and honest with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and medical history to ensure the best possible care.