What is “broken-heart syndrome?”
Stress cardiomyopathy—also known as “broken-heart syndrome”—is a reversible heart condition that often mimics a heart attack. First described more than 25 years ago, it is now recognized more often than in the past. It usually results from severe physical or emotional stress, such as a severe medical illness, the death of a family member, or a natural disaster. During an episode, the heart takes on an unusual shape, in which the tip of the left ventricle balloons outward and the base contracts. The heart’s workload increases, leading to symptoms such as chest pain and breathlessness. But the condition usually resolves within a month.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.
With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!
Already a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
