Last updated on April 14, 2022
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the phrase ‘Broken Heart’? Well, we often associate it with sadness. In medical terms, a Broken heart is a rare heart condition usually triggered under stressful or emotional events.
According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, “broken heart syndrome is more common now than ever. Especially among middle-aged (between ages 40-60) and older women over the age of 55. This population is diagnosed with the condition up to 10 times more often than younger men or women of any age”.¹
Everything You Need to Know About Broken Heart Syndrome in Women
Before learning about the common symptoms to look out for, it’s essential to understand the definition of broken heart syndrome. Broken Heart Syndrome: also referred to as takotsubo syndrome or stress cardiomyopathy, is a temporary and reversible heart condition triggered by severe stress. It causes the heart muscles to become weaker.
This condition may lead to severe heart muscle failure, but it is treatable. Many people will recover within weeks after receiving treatment. However, in some rare cases, it may become fatal. If you or someone you know are experiencing some of the common symptoms listed below, then you must consult your doctor
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Weakening of the left ventricle
- Irregular heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- The build-up of fluid in the lungs
- Diaphoresis
If broken heart syndrome is left untreated, it may lead to cardiogenic shock or arrhythmias.
What Causes Broken Heart Syndrome?
It is hard to state the exact cause. Experts say that this condition may be due to the release of stress hormones during physical or emotional stress. Such hormones include:
- Epinephrine
- Adrenalin
- Noradrenalin
- Norepinephrine
These hormones are likely to obstruct the functioning of the heart.
Diagnosis for Broken Heart Syndrome
If you are experiencing shortness of breath or chest pain, you should consult a cardiologist. Your doctor may conduct standard diagnostic tests to determine if you are suffering from broken heart syndrome.
Physical exam: this test may help determine a new mitral regurgitation murmur, increase in heart rate, or low blood pressure
Chest X-ray: Your doctor may recommend getting a chest x-ray to see the structure of your lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
Coronary angiogram: This test will determine if there is any blockage in the blood flow.
Cardiac MRI: is used to see moving and still images of your heart.
An EKG: This determines your heart’s electrical activity
After carefully examining the test reports, your cardiologist will start with the initial treatment, which involves putting you on simple medication for heart muscle weakness. One of the ways to treat this health condition is indulging in activities that will reduce stress. Engaging in simple relaxation techniques may prevent this health problem and relieve those diagnosed with broken heart syndrome.
Ways To Cope With Stress
Exercise: Physical workout releases endorphins in the body, chemicals in the brain that function as pain killers. Exercise also improves your ability to get good sleep, which further reduces stress.
Deep breathing: Deep breathing is one of the best ways to relieve stress. When you take deep breathes, a message is sent to your brain to relax and calm down.
Meditation: Meditation has proved to be an effective technique to treat this serious issue. It involves breathing techniques that lower the amount of cortisol in the body, thus relieving anxiety and stress.
Spend time with loved ones: Nothing can make you happier than spending time with your loved ones. Sometimes it is good to spend time with your friends and family to reassure yourself that everything will be alright after all.
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