Five Facts About ‘Broken Heart Syndrome’

Anyone who’s suffered a deep emotional loss knows the feelings brought on by a broken heart. But did you know “broken heart syndrome” is a real medical condition?

Here, Dr. Dipti Itchhaporia, M.D., M.A.C.C., Eric and Shiela Samson Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Health and director of disease management at the Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart & Vascular Institute at Hoag, shares five facts more about this aptly named condition.

Fact 1: Broken heart syndrome is very real

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or “broken heart syndrome,” is a condition caused by severe and extended emotional stress, says Dr. Itchhaporia.

It is a type of cardiomyopathy that can cause the heart’s main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, to become weakened. These changes can lead to severe complications and should be addressed by expert cardiologists.

Fact 2: Women are most at risk of broken heart syndrome

Women, especially those aged 50 and older with a history of anxiety or depression, are at an increased risk of broken heart syndrome. This risk is particularly elevated following significant emotional stress, such as the end of a relationship, a severe illness, or the loss of a loved one.

Fact 3: Broken heart syndrome symptoms are similar to heart attack symptoms

Although broken heart syndrome does not involve blocked arteries like a heart attack, its symptoms closely resemble those of a heart attack. These symptoms include severe chest pain, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, dizziness, and unexplained sweating. Regardless of the final diagnosis, Dr. Itchhaporia emphasizes the importance of seeking emergency medical treatment when experiencing these symptoms.

Fact 4: Broken heart syndrome is treated through a combination of medicine and other options

If you are diagnosed with takotsubo cardiomyopathy, several treatment approaches may be recommended, including:

• Managing healthy blood pressure

• Lowering or maintaining healthy cholesterol levels

• Exercise

• Cardiac rehabilitation

• Mindfulness

• Meditation

• Biofeedback

• Yoga

Fact 5: People who have broken heart syndrome generally have a good prognosis

“Because the heart muscle is usually not permanently damaged, most patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy have a positive five-year prognosis,” Dr. Itchhaporia said."

Learn more about the Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart & Vascular Institute at Hoag.