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

What Causes A ‘Broken Heart’?

Unfortunately, there is no exact and clear cause for broken heart syndrome. However, there are a few contributing factors that can lead to an individual developing this uncommon condition. Medical professionals believe one of the primary causes of broken heart syndrome is when an individual experiences a surge of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can cause temporary damage the heart. However, how these hormones can possibly hurt the heart is not completely clear, but a temporary constriction of the small or large arteries of the heart due to the stress a patient experienced is believed to play a significant role. An intense physical or emotional event typically precedes broken heart syndrome, and some of these triggers include the unexpected death of a loved one, domestic abuse, a divorce or separation, job loss, winning or losing a lot of money. Other triggers include a terrifying medical diagnosis, strong arguments, a surprise party, and physical stressors such as an asthma or panic attack, a car accident or major surgery.

It is also possible some types of medications, although rare, can cause broken heart syndrome for some individuals due to a huge surge of stress hormones. These medications include epinephrine or an EpiPen for severe allergic reactions, duloxetine, which treats nerve issues or depression, venlafaxine, which treats depression, and levothyroxine for those afflicted with thyroid gland problems.

Keep reading to learn how a broken heart can be treated.