Your heart can break… literally!
Broken hearts don't only happen in movies or your favourite book. A broken heart in real life can actually lead to cardiac consequences.
According to heart.org, a broken heart syndrome also called stress-induced cardiomyopathy or takotsubo cardiomyopathy can strike even if you are healthy and you exercise every single day.
Photo via Meds News
Women are more likely than men to experience the sudden, intense chest pain - the reaction to a surge of stress hormones that can be caused by an emotionally stressful event like the death of a loved one or even a divorce, breakup or physical separation, or romantic rejection.
It could even happen after a good shock, like winning a lucky draw!
Broken heart syndrome can also be misdiagnosed as the symptoms and test results are similar to a heart attack. But unlike a heart attack, there’s no evidence of blocked heart arteries in broken heart syndrome.
The bad news is, broken heart syndrome can lead to severe, short-term heart muscle failure. Ouch!
But the good news is, broken heart syndrome is usually treatable. Most people who experience it may make a full recovery within weeks and they’re at low risk for it happening again!
Although death has happened, it’s an extremely rare event - about 1% - and therefore it’s highly unlikely you will die of a broken heart.
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.
So, if you’re feeling like something’s off with your body, it’s best that you contact your doctor!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
