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Can Stress Really Break Your Heart?

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Can Stress Really Break Your Heart?

Cardiology | by BMB | Published on 21/07/2022


Quite often, when we are sad, we tend to use the term heartbreak, which is basically a metaphor for intense emotional pain and stress. What if we tell you that there is in fact a condition that could be triggered by it? You must be wondering how's that even possible. But, it's true. Broken heart syndrome, also referred to as stress cardiomyopathy or Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy is an actual condition that presents with symptoms, somewhat similar to those of a cardiac arrest. Continue reading to know more about this unusual heart condition that can affect people of any age group.

Broken heart syndrome is a temporary condition that can be completely reversed with proper care and management. It is marked by the inability of the left ventricle to function efficiently, which happens very abruptly and without any prior warning. This drastically impacts the normal rhythm of your heart and in some cases, the patient's heart might even become enlarged temporarily. Although the condition specifically affects the left ventricle, it can also put a strain on other areas of the heart resulting in forceful contractions. All these prevent your heart from carrying out its functions normally, however, this lasts for a short span of time and normal heart function is restored within some time.

Experts specializing in angioplasty in Kolkata suggest that many people experiencing the problem mistake it for a heart attack however, it is important to understand that, unlike a heart attack, broken heart syndrome is not caused by an existing coronary artery disease or any other underlying heart problem. Also, the condition is not as serious and there are no major complications that you need to be worried about.

You will be surprised to know that around 88 percent of women, especially those who have hit menopause, are likely to experience the problem. This could possibly be due to the significant drop in estrogen levels after they stop ovulating.

As far as the rate of mortality is concerned, a leading cardiac specialist in Kolkata suggests that the chances of a person dying from broken heart syndrome are extremely rare, accounting for nearly 1 percent, and that too if you have an existing heart condition or any other serious ailment.

What triggers broken heart syndrome?

As mentioned earlier, broken heart syndrome is a result of excessive stress which may be emotional or physical. The best cardiologist in Kolkata suggests that there are a variety of factors or reasons that may be responsible for it. The most common of these are:

  • Sorrow and grief caused by the death of a family member or friend.
  • Sudden excitement due to an unexpected news
  • Sudden fear, experienced due to a dreadful situation
  • Extreme anger or frustration
  • Unbearable pain in any part of the body
  • Excessive physical exhaustion
  • Existing health issues that are not properly managed.

What should you do if you are experiencing the symptoms?

If you ever experience any of the following symptoms, consult the experts from the best hospital in Kolkata to get yourself evaluated.

  • Sudden chest pain and discomfort
  • Breathlessness
  • Arrhythmia
  • A drop in your blood pressure

Experiencing the symptoms does not always mean that you have broken heart syndrome. The problem can be much more serious. Hence, it is always better to seek expert guidance and go for a proper evaluation. This can help your doctor to plan the course of treatment.

Also, you can alleviate the risks of the same by practicing simple stress management techniques. Follow a healthy lifestyle and try to stay active. Prioritize your sleep and practice meditation techniques. See a specialist if you are finding it difficult to cope with any stressful situation.