Broken Heart Syndrome

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy, better known as Broken Heart Syndrome, is a disorder where stress and other external factors impair the heart's left ventricle, which is the heart's primary pumping chamber. The heart beats 60–100 times per minute in a healthy adult. A person with broken heart syndrome may experience an irregular or weak heartbeat as a result of their heart rate falling below or rising over this usual range. The left ventricle's brief alteration in shape, which resembles a Tako-Tsubo, a Japanese octopus trap, is the origin of the name Takotsubo.

Classic heart attack symptoms like intense pressure, heaviness, or a sharp pain in the chest are among the signs of broken heart syndrome. Dizziness, cold chills, abrupt exhaustion, and shortness of breath are some of the other, lesser symptoms. People frequently fail to distinguish between broken heart syndrome and a heart attack. In broken heart syndrome, the same symptoms might appear even in the absence of artery obstruction, whereas heart attacks only happen when the heart's arteries are blocked. In any case, make the time to visit the doctor as soon as possible if you are exhibiting any of these symptoms.

Numerous factors can lead to Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy. Major causes of this disorder include sudden drops in heart rate, severe illnesses, domestic violence, stress from the outside world, emotional stress, serious accidents, extreme fear, and fights. The left ventricle's muscular tissue essentially becomes startled and alters shape when the body experiences stressful or painful emotions. This disorder usually affects women over 50 and, in rare instances, young adults who are under a lot of stress. To ascertain whether you have this condition or not, doctors will use coronary angiography, echocardiograms, blood tests, and ECGs.

Since Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy is easily treatable, there aren't many treatments available. Medication, such as beta blockers, is the primary therapy method used to aid in the recovery of the heart muscle. The average recovery time for the heart is two to four weeks. Broken Heart syndrome doesn't usually cause death, but if it isn't addressed, it can lead to other health issues and perhaps death.

Sources: https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy-broken-heart-syndrome https://www.svhhearthealth.com.au/conditions/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy#:~:text=Takotsubo%20cardiomyopathy%20is%20a%20temporary,ability%20to%20pump%20blood%20effectively. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/circulationaha.108.767012

Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board