What Is Broken Heart Syndrome?
Broken heart syndrome is a condition with symptoms that can feel like a heart attack, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. It can occur after a very stressful physical or emotional event, such as a stroke or the death of someone you love. Doctors may also call it stress-induced cardiomyopathy.
Broken heart syndrome symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack. If you have chest pain, you should seek immediate medical attention.
How Did Broken Heart Syndrome Get Its Name?
Much of the early research into this condition came from Japan, where it was called takotsubo cardiomyopathy or takotsubo syndrome. The name comes from the way the heart’s main pumping chamber changes shape, resembling a traditional Japanese pot used to catch octopus, called a “takotsubo.”
Researchers have also referred to it as transient left ventricular apical ballooning.
A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2005 noted that many patients had recently experienced the death of a loved one, which helped popularize the term “broken heart syndrome.”
Causes
During a stressful event, your body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline. High levels of adrenaline can narrow the arteries that supply blood to the heart, reducing blood flow. It can also affect heart cells directly by increasing calcium levels, making it harder for the heart to beat normally.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms are:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
These symptoms may feel like a heart attack. If you experience them, call emergency services immediately.
Other symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
Symptoms usually begin within a few hours after a stressful or shocking event.
Triggers
Emotional triggers may include:
- Grief from the death of a loved one or pet
- Loss of a relationship, job, or money
- Intense fear
- Extreme anger
- Sudden surprises (such as winning the lottery or a surprise party)
Physical triggers may include:
- Car accidents
- Major surgery
- Serious illness
- Conditions such as asthma, seizures, stroke, high fever, low blood sugar, or significant blood loss
In rare cases, certain medications or stimulant drugs (such as cocaine or methamphetamine) can also trigger the condition.
Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are female
- Are over age 50
- Have had a stroke or seizures
- Have a history of anxiety or depression
Diagnosis
Doctors use several tests to diagnose broken heart syndrome and rule out a heart attack:
- Physical exam and medical history
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
- Blood tests (to check cardiac enzymes)
- Coronary angiogram (to check for blocked arteries)
- Echocardiogram (to assess heart shape and function)
- Cardiac MRI
Broken Heart Syndrome vs. Heart Attack
Although symptoms are similar, the causes differ:
- Heart attack: Caused by blocked arteries due to plaque buildup
- Broken heart syndrome: No blockages; the heart temporarily weakens and doesn’t pump properly
Treatment
Initially, treatment may be similar to that for a heart attack, and hospitalization is often required.
Once diagnosed, treatment may include medications such as:
- ACE inhibitors
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
- Beta-blockers
- Diuretics
Complications
Although rare, complications can occur, including:
- Blood clots in the heart
- Heart failure
- Low blood pressure
- Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema)
- Irregular heart rhythms
Death is rare, and most people recover fully.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent broken heart syndrome, but managing stress can reduce your risk.
Helpful strategies include:
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Breathing exercises
- Journaling
- Therapy or support groups
Maintaining overall health also helps:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced diet
- Get 7–9 hours of sleep
- Stay socially connected
- Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, and drugs
Outlook
Most people recover within a few weeks and return to normal within about a month. Some may feel tired or weak for several months afterward.
FAQs
What does broken heart syndrome feel like?
It feels similar to a heart attack, with chest pain, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or sweating.
Can it be cured?
Yes. Treatment helps the heart recover, and most people make a full recovery.
How long does it last?
Recovery often begins within hours of treatment and is usually complete within weeks, though fatigue may last longer.
What does imaging show?
Imaging often reveals a distinctive ballooning shape of the heart’s left ventricle, resembling a takotsubo pot.
