What is broken heart syndrome?

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What is Broken Heart Syndrome?
Thanks for asking.
The idea of a broken heart may make you think of a cartoon, an emoji or a bad breakup from your past. But Broken Heart Syndrome is a real physical condition, which is also known as Teko Tsubo.
Let me guess, the name is Japanese because that's where the first case was recorded? Good guess, but just wide of the mark. Teko Tsubo syndrome was described for the first time in Japan at the start of the 1990s. Researchers in the western world didn't acknowledge the condition until several years later, towards the end of the same decade. It's generally caused by a physical or emotional stressor, such as a bereavement, rejection or divorce. It sometimes even happens after a positive shock, like winning the lottery for example. This kind of stressor literally stuns the heart.
A massive amount of stress hormones are released, preventing the heart's muscular portion from contracting. The left ventricle expands and ends up looking like an octopus trap, which is the meaning of the Japanese word, takutsubo. So you're saying it's like the heart having a burnout basically. How can we recognize the symptoms? Broken heart syndrome is sometimes misdiagnosed as a heart attack, due to common symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain. Even tests have shown similarities, such as changes in heartbeat and blood substances. If you want to compare the key differences, a heart attack involves a blocked artery, preventing the heart from functioning. Meanwhile, with Takotsubo, the heart temporarily grows bigger and doesn't pump as well as usual. It's a temporary weakening of the heart muscle.
Can broken heart syndrome affect anyone? It can do, but it's most common in women who suffer from anxiety, in particular going through menopause. 80% of Takotsubo syndrome cases affect women over 50, specifically because they are no longer protected by estrogen post-menopause. While most patients recover within two months, it's still a serious and urgent heart condition which is somewhat unknown. It's important to call emergency services immediately when someone is affected. Just like with a heart attack, every minute counts. How can we avoid becoming victims of Takotsubo in the current situation? We hear it all the time, but it's still worth repeating. Taking good care of yourself is rule number one. Here are a few practical tips which are especially relevant right now during the COVID-19 pandemic. If working from home, start your day off by going outside and taking in some fresh air before turning on your PC. Make the most of your lunch break by having a power nap and eat some dark chocolate. It's known for being rich in magnesium which reduces stress. In a time when everything is restricted, it's important to treat yourself to small pleasures, but keep it in moderation. Good life hygiene is the key.
There you have it. Now you know what broken heart syndrome is. In under three minutes, we answer your questions. What would you like to know about? Use the comment section to ask your questions on the podcast platform.