Unveiling the Mysteries of Broken Heart Syndrome: symptoms & causes

"No, it is not a myth. It’s a real thing." confirms nurse Barbara Ewalt Darville. 

More than just an organ responsible for circulating blood, your heart holds an emotional significance. It's often used metaphorically to describe deep emotional experiences, such as the joy of love or the anguish of heartbreak. But did you know that intense emotional stress can actually have physical repercussions on the heart? This phenomenon is known as Broken Heart Syndrome, also referred to as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. 

So what is Broken Heart Syndrome?

Broken Heart Syndrome serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate connection between our emotional experiences and our physical health. Broken Heart Syndrome is a temporary heart condition with symptoms similar to a heart attack. However, unlike a heart attack, it's not caused by blocked arteries but by an emotional or physical shock. The syndrome was first described in Japan in the 1990's and has since gained recognition worldwide. 

"Broken heart syndrome is no joke. I went through an emotionally strong event very recently and not only my heart felt like it was sinking in my gut, I experienced a discharge, I almost couldn't breathe or talk for what seemed like an eternity. I was paralized from the waist down for a few minutes. I was on the phone with my best friend and she told me to go get a glass of water to try and calm down, but I simply couldn't move." stated Silver Magazine's founder. 

Symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome

The symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome can be frightening and similar to a heart attack. Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and fainting. People experiencing Broken Heart Syndrome may also exhibit symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and anxiety. These symptoms typically occur suddenly, often following an intense emotional event like the loss of a loved one, a relationship breakup, unexpected shocking news, financial stress, or a traumatic experience.

Broken Heart syndrome can occur "when people are in hospitals, or they’ve had a multitude of losses in their life. Sudden trauma of death of someone. I’ve seen patients die because of a broken heart." continues nurse Barbara Darville. 

Causes of Broken Heart Syndrome

While the precise mechanisms underlying Broken Heart Syndrome are not yet fully understood, it's believed to be triggered by a surge of stress hormones. The sudden release of these hormones, such as adrenaline, can temporarily disrupt the heart's normal pumping function. Several potential causes have been identified:

• Emotional stress: The loss of a loved one, a broken relationship, or overwhelming emotional experiences can trigger Broken Heart Syndrome. Intense grief, anger, or fear can have a profound impact on the heart's functioning.

• Physical stress: Physical stressors, such as a severe illness, surgery, or a traumatic injury, can also trigger Broken Heart Syndrome. The body's response to these physical stresses can influence the heart's functioning.

• Coronary artery spasm: In some cases, Broken Heart Syndrome may be associated with a temporary spasm of the coronary arteries, which reduces blood flow to the heart. This spasm can lead to the symptoms associated with the condition.

Broken Heart Syndrome serves as a stark reminder that our emotions do have profound effects on our physical well-being. The mind and body are intricately connected, and extreme emotional stress can manifest as tangible symptoms in the form of Broken Heart Syndrome. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes of this condition are essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.

If you or someone you know experiences sudden chest pain or other symptoms of heart distress after an intense emotional event, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. While Broken Heart Syndrome is a reversible condition, proper medical care is essential to ensure a full recovery.