apollo

Broken Heart Syndrome Overview and Management

Discover what Broken Heart Syndrome is, its emotional and physical triggers, symptoms, and management strategies. Learn how this stress-induced heart condition can be effectively treated with timely care.

reviewerImg

Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair

Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)

Last updated on 22nd Aug, 2025

Broken Heart Syndrome, also known as Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy or Stress Cardiomyopathy, is a temporary heart condition often triggered by extreme emotional or physical stress. Despite its name, it doesn’t involve actual heartbreak but mimics symptoms similar to a heart attack.

The condition causes a sudden weakening of the heart muscles, leading to chest pain and shortness of breath. The good news? Unlike a heart attack, it’s usually reversible with proper care and rarely causes permanent damage.

Symptoms: How to Recognize It

Broken Heart Syndrome can feel like a heart attack, with symptoms such as:

  • Chest pain (sharp or squeezing sensation)

  • Shortness of breath

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Low blood pressure

  • Fatigue or dizziness

These symptoms usually appear suddenly after intense emotional stress such as the loss of a loved one, a breakup, or severe anxiety or physical stress like surgery or extreme exertion.

Consult a Top Cardiologist

Dr. Zulkarnain, General Physician

Dr. Zulkarnain

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

40 Cashback

Dr. Tripti Deb, Cardiologist

Dr. Tripti Deb

Cardiologist

40 Years • MBBS, MD, DM, FACC, FESC

Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

550

55 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Anand Ravi, General Physician

Dr. Anand Ravi

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Dr. Janjirala Seshivardhan, Cardiologist

Dr. Janjirala Seshivardhan

Cardiologist

7 Years • MBBS,DNB(GM),DM(Cardiology)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

850

128 Cashback

850

No Booking Fees

What Causes Broken Heart Syndrome?

While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, experts believe a sudden surge of stress hormones (like adrenaline) temporarily stuns the heart, affecting its ability to pump blood effectively.

Common Triggers Include:

  • Emotional stress (grief, fear, shock, extreme anger)

  • Physical stress (severe pain, asthma attacks, surgery)

  • Medical conditions (stroke, seizures, severe infections)

Who Is at Risk?

Broken Heart Syndrome is more common in:

  • Women (especially postmenopausal women)

  • People with a history of anxiety or depression

  • Those who have experienced extreme stress or trauma

Unlike heart attacks, which are often linked to blocked arteries, this condition can occur even in people with healthy hearts.

Diagnosis: How Is It Detected?

Since symptoms resemble a heart attack, doctors may perform tests like:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) – Checks heart rhythm.

  • Echocardiogram – Uses ultrasound to see heart function.

  • Blood tests – Measures cardiac enzymes (though levels may differ from a heart attack).

  • Cardiac MRI – Provides detailed images of the heart.

If you experience sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical help to rule out a heart attack.

Treatment and Recovery

The good news? Most people recover within weeks to months with proper care. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Medical Treatments May Include:

  • Beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors – Help reduce stress on the heart.

  • Diuretics – If fluid buildup occurs.

  • Aspirin or blood thinners – In some cases, to prevent clots.

Lifestyle and Stress Management Tips

Since stress is a major trigger, managing emotional well-being is key:

1. Practice Relaxation Techniques – Deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help lower stress.

2. Stay Physically Active – Light exercise (as advised by your doctor) supports heart health.

3. Seek Emotional Support – Talking to friends, family, or a therapist can ease emotional burdens.

4. Maintain a Balanced Diet – Focus on heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

5. Avoid Excessive Caffeine & Alcohol – These can worsen stress and heart strain.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience:

  • Sudden chest pain

  • Severe shortness of breath

  • Fainting spells

Don’t ignore these signs, seek emergency care immediately.

For ongoing heart health concerns, consider consulting a cardiologist. You can easily book an appointment or a heart health check-up through Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.

Conclusion

Broken Heart Syndrome is a real but temporary condition that highlights how deeply emotions can affect our physical health. While it can be scary, most people recover fully with timely care and lifestyle adjustments.

Consult a Top Cardiologist

Dr. Zulkarnain, General Physician

Dr. Zulkarnain

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

40 Cashback

Dr. Tripti Deb, Cardiologist

Dr. Tripti Deb

Cardiologist

40 Years • MBBS, MD, DM, FACC, FESC

Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

550

55 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Anand Ravi, General Physician

Dr. Anand Ravi

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Dr. Janjirala Seshivardhan, Cardiologist

Dr. Janjirala Seshivardhan

Cardiologist

7 Years • MBBS,DNB(GM),DM(Cardiology)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

850

128 Cashback

850

No Booking Fees

Consult a Top Cardiologist

Dr. Zulkarnain, General Physician

Dr. Zulkarnain

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

40 Cashback

Dr. Tripti Deb, Cardiologist

Dr. Tripti Deb

Cardiologist

40 Years • MBBS, MD, DM, FACC, FESC

Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad

550

55 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Anand Ravi, General Physician

Dr. Anand Ravi

General Physician

2 Years • MBBS

Bengaluru

PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru

400

60 Cashback

Dr. Janjirala Seshivardhan, Cardiologist

Dr. Janjirala Seshivardhan

Cardiologist

7 Years • MBBS,DNB(GM),DM(Cardiology)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

850

128 Cashback

850

No Booking Fees

Dr Nazneen Khan, Cardiologist

Dr Nazneen Khan

Cardiologist

7 Years • M.B.B.S, M.D (MEDICINE), DrNB CARDIOLOGY

Pune

Apollo Clinic, Viman Nagar, Pune

800

120 Cashback

More articles from General Medical Consultation