A condition known as “broken heart syndrome” can cause chest pain and shortness of breath after a traumatic event, such as a divorce or the death of a loved one. Doctors call it takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
The syndrome is thought to be triggered by physical or emotional stress, which releases stress hormones like adrenaline that prevent people’s hearts from contracting properly. Most patients recover quickly, but some suffer heart failure.
Broken heart syndrome is more common in women than men, with women dying at a much lower rate. However, when men do experience the condition, they are more likely to die.
Researchers believe that men may be less susceptible to stress hormones and therefore require a more significant trigger to develop the syndrome. Additionally, men often have less social support to help manage stress, making recovery harder.
While doctors can confirm broken heart syndrome with diagnostic tests, there is still much to be learned about its causes. Some patients may not recover from the condition due to complications from other medical issues.
The American Heart Association study found that deaths from broken heart syndrome were relatively stable between 2016 and 2020. However, cardiologists emphasize the importance of seeking hospital care immediately if symptoms persist.
“Don’t dismiss your symptoms as stress,” said Dr. Harmony Reynolds. “You can’t tell the difference between this and traditional heart attacks until you get to the hospital and have a series of tests.”
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/health/heart-health/men-are-likely-die-broken-heart-syndrome-study-says-rcna206276