A broken heart is usually triggered by massive mental stress and emotional strain. This can include:
- the death of a loved one
- a seperation
- traumatic experiences
- the diagnosis of a serious illness
Good to know: Even “positive” stress, such as an upcoming wedding, can trigger too many stress hormones and lead to broken heart syndrome.
Signs and causes of broken heart syndrome
The treacherous thing regarding Broken Heart Syndrome? Its signs are similar to those of a heart attack. Which is why those affected usually assume a heart attack. Characteristic of broken heart syndrome:
- Chest tightness that may be associated with pain
- shortness of breath
- tachycardia
- low blood pressure
- dizziness
- nausea and vomiting
It looks similarly uncertain with the medical examinations. An abnormally distended left apex of the heart is often seen on a cardiac ultrasound. Finally, a cardiac catheter examination provides precise and reliable information. If there are no occluded coronary arteries, your symptoms are not a heart attack, but broken heart syndrome.
Broken Heart Syndrome has not been extensively researched. Particularly striking: 90 percent of those affected are women who have gone through the menopause. There is as yet no clear scientific explanation for this. It is assumed that the reduced estrogen level following menopause plays an important role and makes women more susceptible to stress hormones.
Treatment of Broken Heart Syndrome
Broken Heart Syndrome should definitely be taken seriously. This is because the risk of complications can be increased during the acute phase. Cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary edema or cardiogenic shock, which causes the heart to fail to pump, are all possible.
After a few weeks, the symptoms return to normal. However, long-term damage such as heart failure can threaten. If you have such an insufficiency, you will be treated with beta-blockers to stabilize the heart rhythm and reduce stress hormones. Even following recovering from Broken Heart Syndrome, patients should have regular medical check-ups. Psychological support can also be useful.
