Whether it’s a loss of a dear person, an unfortunate diagnosis or separation from a partner: sadness not only feels painful, it can have a negative impact on the state of health. One possible disease that it can cause is Broken Heart Syndrome and in 89% of cases it mainly affects women, most are between 58 and 77.1 It is important for both patients and their families to understand the causes and symptoms in order to treat the disease properly and, if possible, prevent it.
What’s behind Psychocardiology?
Psychocardiology asserts that a person’s emotional and mental state can affect the cardiovascular system.2 This branch of human medicine explores the heart-brain connection and the complex relationship between psychological and neuro-biological mechanisms.2 It is recognised that the brain and heart are in constant communication and that disruptions to this communication can lead to heart problems .e.g. like Broken Heart Syndrome.3 But what is Broken Heart Syndrome exactly?
What is Broken Heart Syndrome?
Broken Heart Syndrome, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or Takotsubo cardiomyopathy,4 is a heart condition that primarily affects the left ventricle, the heart’s main pumping chamber.4 This condition is typically triggered by extreme emotional stress.4 The pathogenesis of Broken Heart Syndrome is therefore based on the interaction between the psyche and the heart.3 Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by blocked coronary arteries, Broken Heart Syndrome results from a sudden weakening of the heart muscle due to a surge of stress hormones such as adrenaline.5 This surge of hormones affects the heart’s ability to pump effectively, leading to symptoms that mimic those of a heart attack.4 As Broken Heart Syndrome is a very serious condition, it is important that those affected and their relatives are aware of the symptoms and causes.
Symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome
Broken Heart Syndrome may sound like lovesickness. But is it really just about sadness? The symptoms show how serious the disease really is, coming on suddenly and with signs similar to a heart attack. People often report stabbing or squeezing pains in the chest, which are often mistaken for a heart attack. Severe shortness of breath, an irregular heartbeat, palpitations and cold sweats are other possible indications. Those affected may also suffer from dizziness or sudden onset of severe fatigue. 6
Causes of Broken Heart Syndrome
As previously described, Broken Heart Syndrome is triggered by stress.4 Patients have reported a variety of acute stressors as triggers, including a serious or unexpected medical diagnosis. For example, the loss of a loved one or the serious illness of a close family member or friend can also trigger symptoms of Broken Heart Syndrome. Involvement in or witnessing a traumatic accident can significantly impact emotional and physical health. Experiencing a natural disaster such as an earthquake, flood, or hurricane can also cause overwhelming stress and contribute to the onset of Broken Heart Syndrome.1
Prevention Tips
The different stressors highlight the critical link between emotional experiences and cardiovascular health, and the need for comprehensive care that addresses both physical and emotional well-being. A comprehensive approach to improving mental and physical health helps to prevent and treat Broken Heart Syndrome. You can protect your heart from the damaging effects of stress and improve your overall wellbeing.1
The following tips can help with effective stress management:
Mindfulness and Mental Health
Mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing are effective tools for reducing stress.7 These techniques help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions, allowing them to respond to stress in healthier ways.7 Mindfulness can lower the risk of stress-related heart disease.5 Generally, mindfulness practices help individuals achieve greater balance and acceptance.7
Exercise
Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and heart health.5 Activities such as walking, tennis, or water aerobics help lower blood pressure, and improve heart function.8 Health experts recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week.8 Engaging in physical activity helps individuals get back on their feet and regain their overall health.8
Diet
Naturally, providing the body with the right food is important for mental health,9 which is no different for those affected by Broken Heart Syndrome – eating healthy helps stabilize the body.10 Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products provides the necessary nutrients to reduce the risk of heart disease.11 Additionally, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and flaxseed, are particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health and can help reduce inflammation.12
Conclusion
Understanding the intricate heart-brain connection is critical to the prevention and treatment of Broken Heart Syndrome. The field of psychocardiology offers valuable insights into how emotional and psychological stress can affect cardiovascular health. By taking a holistic approach that includes stress reduction techniques, a balanced diet, regular exercise and mindfulness practices, individuals can better prevent CVD and improve their overall well-being.
At Daiichi Sankyo we support the holistic view of care to improve patient outcomes and CVD care. That is why we are passionate about empowering people to take an active role in managing their health through raising awareness of holistic approaches to protect their heart and mental health.
