Can you die of a broken heart? There is a real condition that goes by that name.
It is called Takotsubo syndrome, or stress cardiomyopathy, and it can occur after the loss of a loved one, an intense argument, serious financial problems, or a romantic breakup.
Although its exact cause is not yet fully understood, researchers believe that a sudden surge of stress hormones, such as adrenaline, can disrupt how the heart functions. In many cases, part of the left ventricle changes shape, as if it were inflating like a balloon, and temporarily loses its ability to pump blood.
What is bewildering are its symptoms: chest pain, shortness of breath, and even fainting. Virtually the same as those of a heart attack. However, unlike a typical heart attack, there is generally no blockage in the coronary arteries to explain what happened. That is why doctors need to perform tests to distinguish between the two conditions.
It is more common in women, especially after menopause. Most patients recover in the following weeks, although serious complications can occur and, in rare cases, the condition can be fatal.
And although its name may suggest otherwise, the syndrome does not physically break the heart or its chordae tendineae. What happens is an impairment of its ability to contract.
In the event of any severe or unexplained chest pain, it is essential to seek emergency medical care.