Broken Heart Syndrome 101: It Is Possible To Break Your Heart

Signs & Symptoms

As horrifyingas it can be, broken heart syndrome can mimic numerous symptoms of a heart attack and cause a patient to believe they are experiencing cardiac arrest. Common symptoms of broken heart syndrome include intense chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, low blood pressure, nausea, and an irregular heartbeat. Symptoms typically start anywhere up to a few hours after an individual has experienced extreme stress or shock. Any long-lasting or persistent chest pain can be a sign of an impending heart attack, so it is essential individuals take it seriously and seek medical attention immediately.

How is broken heart syndrome different from a heart attack? Generally speaking, heart attacks are caused by the blockage of an artery within the heart, which is the result of a blood clot forming at the site of narrowing from the fatty buildup in the artery wall. However, with broken heart syndrome, the arteries are not blocked despite a reduction in the blood flow to the heart.

Next, discover the various causes of broken heart syndrome, ranging from situational to medications.