Understanding Broken Heart Syndrome: A Closer Look at Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy
When we think of heart-related conditions, the image that typically comes to mind is that of a heart attack, caused by blockages in the coronary arteries. However, there’s another cardiac condition that doesn’t involve blocked arteries but can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack — Broken Heart Syndrome (BHS). This condition, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is a fascinating and often misunderstood cardiac disorder that deserves a closer look.
What is Broken Heart Syndrome?
Broken Heart Syndrome is a temporary heart condition that’s often triggered by intense emotional or physical stress. The condition was first described in Japan in the 1990s and was named “takotsubo” after the shape of a Japanese octopus trap, which the left ventricle of the heart resembles during systole (contraction) in affected patients. BHS is characterized by a sudden weakening of the heart’s left ventricle, the chamber responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body.
Symptoms of BHS
The symptoms of BHS can closely resemble those of a heart attack, including chest pain, shortness of breath, and an irregular heartbeat. Patients may also experience dizziness, nausea, and fainting spells. These symptoms often prompt individuals to seek immediate medical attention, as…
