General Information About Broken Heart Syndrome
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the sudden weakening and temporary loss of the ability to contract of the heart's main blood-pumping chamber (left ventricle) by changing its shape after experiencing severe stress.
Its symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath, ECG abnormality) are exactly the same as a heart attack. However, while the vessels are blocked by a clot in a heart attack, in this syndrome the coronary arteries are completely open, and the problem is the temporary reaction of the muscle to stress.
It is due to the 'stunning' of the heart muscle temporarily by the storm of adrenaline (stress hormone) created in the body by situations such as the sudden death of a loved one, severe arguments, divorce, or sudden physical illnesses.
About 90% of cases are women. It is seen much more frequently, especially in post-menopausal women (over 50 years of age), along with the decrease in the protective effect of the estrogen hormone.
The patient is admitted to the emergency room with a suspected heart attack. The diagnosis is made when Coronary Angiography (entered through the groin) shows the vessels are completely open, but Echocardiography shows the tip of the heart ballooning out and unable to contract.
Apart from rare complications, it does not leave permanent damage. The hearts of patients, supported by blood pressure and rhythm medications that ease the heart's workload, generally return 100% to their former healthy function within a few weeks.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
