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Is Broken Heart Syndrome Real? Know the Facts
4 min. read
Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute
While the idea of a "broken heart" may sound like something out of a romantic drama, there’s actually a medical condition called stress-induced cardiomyopathy, more commonly known as "broken heart syndrome."
Stress-induced cardiomyopathy is a temporary heart condition that is triggered by extreme emotional or physical stress. It causes the heart to become suddenly weakened, leading to symptoms similar to a heart attack. In this condition, the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently is disrupted, often due to a surge in stress hormones. The result is a temporary but significant change in heart function, though it’s typically reversible with the right treatment.
Marcus St. John, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Cardiac Catheterization Lab (Cath Lab) at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute‘s.
“Stress-induced cardiomyopathy is most classically caused by sudden severe emotional stress triggered by events like the death of a loved one, a car accident, or even emotional stressors related to the holidays,” explains Marcus St. John, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute‘s Cardiac Catheterization Lab (Cath Lab). “Other factors, like physical stress from surgery, can also play a role.”
What Causes Broken Heart Syndrome?
The primary cause of broken heart syndrome is intense emotional or physical stress. This might include situations like the sudden loss of a loved one, a traumatic event, or significant life changes. While these events are often unpredictable, they can have profound effects on the heart.
According to Dr. St. John: “Highly stressful events cause a release of stress hormones in the body that temporarily reduce the heart’s ability to pump efficiently and in a steady, normal pattern. These spikes in stress hormones can lead to damage or dysfunction of the heart muscle, though this damage is typically reversible.”
Broken heart syndrome can also occur during times of high anxiety or emotional turmoil, such as during the holiday season. The added pressures of family dynamics, finances, or the loss of loved ones during the holidays can trigger this condition in vulnerable individuals.
Symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome
The symptoms of broken heart syndrome often mimic those of a heart attack. People may experience chest pain, shortness of breath, and a general sense of discomfort. In some cases, these symptoms may also include elevated heart enzymes and changes in the electrocardiogram (EKG), which can make the condition look like a heart attack on first glance.
Dr. St. John advises: “The initial diagnosis is often made based on the abrupt onset of symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, which can be accompanied by changes in the EKG and elevated heart enzymes. These symptoms are concerning and should prompt immediate medical attention.”
While the symptoms can be severe, they do not always indicate long-term heart damage. In many cases, the heart will heal itself with appropriate care.
How is Broken Heart Syndrome Diagnosed?
Given that broken heart syndrome shares many symptoms with a heart attack, the condition is often diagnosed in an emergency room setting. When someone presents with chest pain and shortness of breath, doctors typically conduct several tests, including an EKG and blood tests to measure heart enzymes. In some cases, heart catheterization may be performed to rule out other causes like coronary artery disease.
Dr. St. John stresses the importance of seeking immediate medical help. “Patients who experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms should go to the emergency room or call 911. They may require heart catheterization to ensure there is no underlying coronary artery disease.”
Treatment and Management
Treatment for broken heart syndrome is generally focused on managing the acute symptoms, such as chest pain and shortness of breath. In some cases, patients may require mechanical ventilation or medications to stabilize their heart and blood pressure.
Once the acute symptoms are under control, patients are often prescribed medications to help the heart heal, just like anyone with a weakened heart muscle. These may include medications to manage blood pressure, improve heart function, or prevent further stress to the heart.
“Treatment for broken heart syndrome typically involves emergency care for the immediate symptoms, followed by medications to support the heart’s recovery,” Dr. St. John explains. “Patients are also monitored over time to ensure the heart regains its normal function.”
Broken heart syndrome is often reversible, and heart function can return to normal over time with the right treatment. “The good news is that for many patients, heart function can return to normal with time, proper lifestyle habits, and medications for the heart,” adds Dr. St. John.
Preventing and Managing Stress-Induced Heart Issues
While it’s difficult to avoid all sources of stress, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of developing broken heart syndrome or other stress-related heart conditions. Dr. St. John emphasizes the importance of recognizing the early symptoms of heart distress and seeking prompt medical attention. He also recommends practicing stress management techniques, such as exercise, meditation, and connecting with family and friends.
For long-term prevention, managing chronic stress through healthy habits is key. Dr. St. John suggests: “In addition to recognizing the acute symptoms of stress-induced cardiomyopathy, it’s important to adopt preventive measures like regular exercise, meditation, and reaching out for support when needed. Reducing chronic stress can help protect the heart and improve overall well-being.”
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