Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

What Causes Stress Cardiomyopathy

During an intense, sudden episode of physical or emotional stress such grief, fear or extreme pain, the body releases stress hormones (adrenaline). Some experts believe that this sudden influx of hormones may cause a temporary spasm of the coronary arteries and reduce blood flow to the smaller blood vessels of the heart, leading to the symptoms associated with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

Symptoms of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Patients with TC will typically visit the emergency room with symptoms similar to a heart attack, including:

• Chest pain, pressure or heaviness
• Shortness of breath
• Sudden onset of extreme fatigue
• Cold sweats
• Lightheadedness

How Is Stress Cardiomyopathy Diagnosed?

If diagnostic tests don’t reveal any blockages in the coronary arteries and heart attack is ruled out, stress cardiomyopathy may be considered. If the patient reports a recent stressful experience such as the loss of a loved one, a diagnosis is more likely.

Recovering From Broken Heart Syndrome

Patients diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy are often hospitalized and monitored to ensure their symptoms resolve and heart function returns to normal.

Medications such as ACE inhibitors may be prescribed to help relax and widen the blood vessels for a short time. It can take up to two months for complete recovery but, if the heart is otherwise healthy, most people experience no long-term damage.