Heartbreak isn't just emotional—it can have serious physical consequences. A heart doctor shares what you need to know about broken heart syndrome, its risks, and whether the heart can truly recover.
Can You Die from a Broken Heart? A Cardiologist Answers
Published on Dec. 19, 2024
About the expert:
Wahaj Aman, MD, is a board-certified cardiologist with UTHealth Houston and Memorial Hermann Health System, as well as a fellow of the American College of Cardiology. He has been practicing since 2011.
It’s a question that strikes at our deepest fears and anxieties, especially if you or a loved one has faced overwhelming emotional distress: “Can you die from a broken heart?”
Medical experts confirm that this is a real phenomenon. Known as broken heart syndrome, or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, this condition is triggered by intense emotional or physical stress and mimics the symptoms of a heart attack. (The name “Takotsubo” comes from the Japanese word for an octopus trap, as the condition causes the heart’s left ventricle to take on a similar balloon-like shape when seen in imaging studies.)
Understanding this condition is important because heartbreak isn’t just emotional—your body can physically feel it, too. According to data shared by the Cleveland Clinic, approximately 2% of patients initially thought to be having a heart attack are actually experiencing broken heart syndrome. However, many experts believe the true number may be higher, as its symptoms often mirror those of more common cardiac emergencies. This can make diagnosis tricky.
Ahead, Wahaj Aman, MD, a board-certified cardiologist with UTHealth Houston and Memorial Hermann Health System, explains what this condition really is, answers the question, “Can you die from a broken heart?” and discusses whether the heart can make a full recovery.
What is broken heart syndrome?
Dr. Aman says: “Broken heart syndrome, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy, typically mimics a heart attack.” Unlike a true heart attack, however, when patients are evaluated in the catheterization lab, their arteries usually show no significant blockages or coronary artery disease.
Broken heart syndrome is frequently triggered by serious emotional events or severe physical stress. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, researchers believe a sudden surge of stress hormones like adrenaline temporarily overwhelms the heart, leading to abnormalities in its function.
How dangerous is broken heart syndrome?
“The risk of dying is about 20%, but several factors—such as age, the severity of heart failure, and the presence of other health issues—can worsen the prognosis,” Dr. Aman says. The reassuring news is that most patients experience a complete recovery of heart function within just one to four weeks.
Broken heart syndrome symptoms
The symptoms of broken heart syndrome can closely mimic those of a heart attack, often making it difficult to distinguish between the two without medical evaluation. The most common symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting or passing out
Other potential symptoms may include:
- Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Fatigue
- Sweating
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, especially chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. While broken heart syndrome is often reversible, it requires prompt diagnosis and care.
Broken heart syndrome causes
Dr. Aman highlights several common triggers for broken heart syndrome, including:
- Unexpected bad news
- Grief from losing a loved one
- Breakups, divorce, or infidelity
- Family conflicts
- Domestic abuse
- Financial loss
- A devastating medical diagnosis
- Injury
- COVID-19
Who’s at risk for broken heart syndrome?
“Women are affected far more than men,” notes Dr. Aman. A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association analyzing over 135,000 cases of broken heart syndrome between 2006 and 2017 found that women accounted for 88.3% of the cases, with the highest incidence among women aged 50 to 74 years.
How is broken heart syndrome diagnosed?
Says Dr. Aman: “Patients are taken to the catheterization lab where a coronary angiogram is performed which typically shows no significant disease.” A coronary angiogram is a specialized imaging test that uses contrast dye and X-rays to visualize the arteries supplying blood to the heart. It helps doctors determine whether blockages or narrowed arteries are causing the symptoms.
In addition to the angiogram, doctors often perform a heart ultrasound, also known as an echocardiogram, which typically reveals decreased motion in the bottom or apex of the heart. Dr. Aman notes, “This is very classic for broken heart syndrome.”
What is the treatment for broken heart syndrome?
Dr. Aman explains that the treatment for broken heart syndrome is primarily supportive, meaning it focuses on managing symptoms and helping the heart recover naturally over time. This approach may include close monitoring and providing medications or interventions as needed to stabilize the patient.
For instance, if a patient develops heart failure—a potential complication—medications can be prescribed to improve heart function and promote healing.
Broken heart syndrome vs. Heart attack: What’s the difference?
“The only way to differentiate the two is by performing coronary angiography,” explains Dr. Aman. This test allows medical professionals to closely examine the coronary arteries, pinpointing the root cause of the symptoms.
When to see a doctor
If you experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat, or other serious symptoms following a period of intense emotional or physical stress, don’t dismiss them as a passing episode. Call 911 or seek immediate medical care to ensure proper evaluation and treatment. Even though the symptoms of broken heart syndrome often mimic those of a heart attack, only a medical evaluation can determine the true cause.
Also, if you’re struggling with overwhelming feelings of grief, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can guide you toward resources to help process these emotions, including connecting you with a mental health professional.
Leaning on trusted friends and family for support can provide comfort and strength during difficult times, too. Addressing your emotional well-being is just as important as caring for your physical health, especially when dealing with the effects of significant stress.
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