Wednesday, February 10, 2010

The Broken Heart Syndrome

Studies have shown that sudden emotional stress can trigger a severe, but reversible heart muscle weakness that mimics a heart attack. This condition known as
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy
is sometimes called The Broken Heart Syndrome.

First described in Japan 15 years ago, Broken Heart Syndrome occurs because emotional trauma floods the body with stress hormones, over-stimulating the nervous system and stunning the heart muscle.

Unlike a heart attack, Broken Heart Syndrome is reversible if diagnosed early. Patients are hospitalized and can recover within days - with no permanent damage to their hearts. Once medical issues are stabilized, seeking a trained mental health specialist will help cure the emotional trauma.

ResearchBlogging.org Derrick, D. (2009). The"Broken Heart Syndrome": Understanding Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Critical Care Nurse, 29 (1), 49-57 DOI:

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