Broken Heart Syndrome is real
Stress from personal loss is not just an emotional condition; it can affect your physical health too.
Most of us have heard someone say they have a "broken heart" after losing a loved one or experiencing a major life setback.
But what many people don't realise is that Broken Heart Syndrome is a genuine medical condition that is seen most often in older adults, particularly women.
Known medically as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, broken heart syndrome occurs when the heart's main pumping chamber suddenly weakens.
It is often triggered by intense emotional stress, such as bereavement, shock, fear or extreme anger, but physical stressors including serious illness, surgery, infection or severe pain can also bring it on.
Experts believe a surge of stress hormones temporarily stuns the heart muscle, reducing its ability to pump effectively.
One of the reasons the condition is taken so seriously is that its symptoms closely resemble those of a heart attack. Common warning signs include:
Sudden chest pain
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or fainting
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Sweating and feelings of distress.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek urgent medical attention. It is impossible to tell the difference between a heart attack and broken heart syndrome without medical assessment and testing.
Research shows that older women are especially vulnerable. An American Heart Association study found that women account for nearly 90% of cases, with the highest rates occurring among women aged 50 and over. Researchers are investigating whether hormonal changes after menopause may contribute to the increased risk.
The good news is that most people recover fully. Unlike a heart attack, broken heart syndrome usually does not result from blocked coronary arteries.
With appropriate treatment and monitoring, heart function often returns to normal within days or weeks, and many people feel significantly better within a month.
However, recovery should not be taken for granted. While the condition is generally temporary, complications can occur. Some patients develop heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, or other cardiovascular problems, particularly during the early stages of the illness. For this reason, prompt diagnosis and medical care remain essential.
According to Australia's Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, around two-thirds of people diagnosed with broken heart syndrome can identify a triggering event.
Yet in many cases no obvious cause is found, reminding us that emotional and physical stress can affect the body in ways we still do not fully understand.
While life inevitably brings periods of stress and grief, looking after emotional wellbeing may help reduce the burden on the heart.
Staying socially connected, remaining physically active, seeking support during difficult times, and speaking with a healthcare professional about ongoing anxiety, depression, or grief are all important steps for healthy ageing.
Chest pain or sudden breathlessness should never be ignored, even when it follows an emotional event. Sometimes a broken heart is more than just a figure of speech, but with timely medical care, most people make a strong recovery.
Related reading: Harvard Health, Heart Foundation NZ, Victor Chang Institute
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a registered healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
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