Can You Really Die from a Broken Heart? Understanding Broken Heart Syndrome

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Can You Really Die from a Broken Heart? Understanding Broken Heart Syndrome

Love songs say hearts break from rejection. Romance novels describe hearts shattering from loss. This Valentine's Day season, as stores overflow with candy hearts and red roses, experts at OU Health want you to know that "heartbreak" isn't just a metaphor.

Your emotional pain can actually cause physical changes to your heart.

The poets and songwriters were onto something. Known in medical circles as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or "broken heart syndrome," this condition proves that matters of the heart aren't just emotional, they're physical too. While finding your soulmate won't cure it and chocolate can't heal it, understanding this real medical condition could save your life or help someone you love.

What Is Broken Heart Syndrome?

Broken heart syndrome occurs when intense emotional or physical stress causes rapid weakening of the heart's main pumping chamber. The left ventricle temporarily balloons out at the bottom while the neck remains narrow, creating a shape that resembles a Japanese octopus trap called a "takotsubo," hence the medical name.

Unlike a heart attack, broken heart syndrome doesn't involve blocked arteries. Instead, stress hormones essentially "stun" the heart, leading to sudden weakness. The good news? It's usually temporary and reversible with proper care.

Watch for Warning Signs

The symptoms can feel frighteningly similar to a heart attack. Common symptoms include sudden, intense chest pain; shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, dizziness or fainting; and arm pain or weakness.

If you experience these symptoms, don't try to self-diagnose–seek emergency care immediately.

What Triggers It?

While "broken heart syndrome" might sound romantic, the triggers aren't limited to lost love. Common causes include:

  • Death of a loved one
  • Divorce or relationship trauma
  • Sudden job loss or financial stress
  • Natural disasters
  • Physical stressors like severe illness or surgery
  • Even intensely positive events like winning the lottery

Surprisingly, roughly 2% of people initially suspected of having a heart attack are diagnosed with broken heart syndrome instead. Women over 50 are most affected, accounting for nearly 90% of cases.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors diagnose broken heart syndrome through blood tests, EKG monitoring, cardiac imaging and coronary angiograms to rule out blocked arteries. When diagnosed, treatment typically involves supportive care while the heart heals.

This support care could include medications to reduce workload on the heart, anxiety management, close monitoring and follow-up imaging to confirm recovery. Most patients recover fully within days or weeks with no lasting damage.

Healing Your Heart Literally and Emotionally

While you can't always prevent emotional stress, you can build resilience by developing a strong support network, practicing stress management through counseling, meditation, yoga, regular exercise and good sleep.

Don't bottle up emotions. Talking to friends, family or a therapist can help ease the loneliness and suffering as well as help to define triggers and develop coping strategies.

Remember, seeking help for emotional pain isn't just good for your mental health–it could protect your physical heart too.

When to Call Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if you're experiencing intense emotional stress and notice any unusual physical symptoms. Always call 911 if you have sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, regardless of the suspected cause.

At OU Health, we understand the unique challenges women face when it comes to heart health. Our expert heart care team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to the needs of women.

Learn more about comprehensive, multidisciplinary heart care or get a second opinion by calling (405) 271-7001.