Why is it called broken heart syndrome?

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is brought on by an extremely stressful physical or emotional event. Common triggers can include the death of a loved one, a serious accident, a fierce argument, an unexpected loss or a sudden illness. These triggers are the reason for the condition’s nickname, broken heart syndrome.

Is takotsubo cardiomyopathy usually fatal?

Death is rare, but heart failure occurs in about 20% of patients. Rarely reported complications include arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), obstruction of blood flow from the left ventricle, and rupture of the ventricle wall.

What are the signs of a broken heart?

Signs & Symptoms. As horrifying as it can be, broken heart syndrome can mimic numerous symptoms of a heart attack and cause a patient to believe they are experiencing cardiac arrest. Common symptoms of broken heart syndrome include intense chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, low blood pressure, nausea, and an irregular heartbeat.

What are the symptoms of a broken heart?

The most common symptoms of broken heart syndrome are sudden, sharp chest pain and shortness of breath. Typically these symptoms begin just minutes to hours after experiencing a severe, and usually unexpected, stress.

What are the symptoms of a broken heart syndrome?

The most common signs and symptoms of broken heart syndrome are angina (chest pain) and shortness of breath. You can experience these things even if you have no history of heart disease. Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) or cardiogenic shock also may occur with broken heart syndrome.

What causes broken heart syndrome?

The cause of broken heart syndrome is not fully understood. In most cases, symptoms are brought on by emotional or physical stress such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, the breakup of a romantic relationship, an asthma attack, an exhausting physical event, or even happy occurrences such as a surprise,…