Polina Kontsidaelo, a cardiologist, explains that Takotsubo syndrome (broken heart syndrome) is an acute, temporary dysfunction of the left ventricle of the heart, accompanied by chest pain, which occurs as a reaction to a strong emotional shock.
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She says, "The word 'Takotsubo' in Japanese means 'octopus trap' — a ceramic vessel with a wide round base and a narrow neck."
This shape is acquired by the heart during the development of the syndrome — it is evident during an ultrasound examination (echocardiography), ventricle imaging (x-ray of the left ventricle of the heart with the introduction of a contrast agent), CT scans, and MRI of the heart.
According to her, the heart muscle loses its ability to contract evenly during the development of broken heart syndrome. The contraction of the heart's apex is reduced, which takes on a spherical shape, forming an expanded "bottom" of the "vessel," while the contractions in the basal sections increase — forming a "narrow neck."
The syndrome develops as a result of intense stress and negative and positive emotional stress. In very rare cases, this condition can develop due to powerful positive emotions — this is called happy heart syndrome. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy can also occur due to various diseases, acute conditions, medical interventions, or medication use.
She adds, "In some cases, the symptoms of Takotsubo syndrome cannot be distinguished from those of a heart attack: a pressing or burning chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive sweating, irregular heartbeat, and loss of consciousness. The changes in the electrocardiogram in Takotsubo syndrome may be similar to those in a heart attack."
According to her, women over the age of 50 are more likely to develop broken heart syndrome, possibly due to a decrease in estrogen levels during menopause. However, there have been rare cases diagnosed in younger individuals and girls.
She explains, "In general, the diagnosis of broken heart syndrome is positive, and most patients recover, with heart function returning to normal within 1-4 weeks. During this period, patients should remain in the hospital under close medical supervision. However, although Takotsubo syndrome is considered a benign condition, the incidence of acute heart failure and even death in those affected is high."
