The phrase ‘a broken heart’ is commonly used to describe the emotional state of a person who seems to be struggling following the loss of a loved one or an intimate relationship. Because the well-recognized heart symbol is frequently associated with love, the broken heart symbolizes the breaking of the relationship.
There has been an ongoing debate among scientists and health professionals regarding whether the loss of a loved one, either due to death, divorce or an ended relationship, has an impact on physical health in addition to mental health.
Earlier this year, authors from Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Medical Center published the results of a study of 2,000 patients who had experienced heart attacks. The study found that the risk of heart attack was 21 times higher in the 24 hours following the death of a loved one.
Although the study does not address the cause of the heart attacks during this time period, the scientific theories suggest that the stress of a significant loss causes the release of the stress hormones- adrenaline, norepinephrine and dopamine which are also called catecholamines. These hormones cause an increase in blood pressure, heart rate and blood sugar. The release of these hormones occurs in response to other causes of stress, not just the stress of losing a loved one.
While chronic stress can damage the heart long-term, there is a specific type of stress-induced heart disease that presents suddenly with symptoms similar to heart attack or heart failure. This sudden-onset stress-induced heart disease can be triggered by a severe medical illness or by intense emotional or physical stress (such as the death of a loved one or a natural disaster). In this condition, there is a sudden weakening of one of the walls of the heart. The complications of this condition include heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms and occasionally rupture of the heart’s wall.
Although the changes and possible complications associated with acute (sudden) stress-induced heart disease, the underlying condition is temporary. Most people have an improvement in heart function over a few months. Death occurs in approximately 2 of every 100 people with the condition.
Dozens of research studies have been published that support the view that sudden stress can result in physical changes to the heart. Unfortunately, the published reports offer little information to help identify people who are at risk for the condition or to help prevent the condition.
Coping with a traumatic or intensely stressful event can be challenging. Below are some strategies to help cope with a traumatic event:
- Accept help from family, friends, co-workers, or clergy. Talk about your feelings with them.
- Follow a normal routine as much as possible.
- Eat healthy meals. Be careful not to skip meals or to overeat.
- Exercise and stay active.
- Stay busy. Consider volunteering.
Although it is not clear whether better coping strategies can prevent sudden stress-induced heart disease, better coping can limit the release of the stress hormones associated with the condition. If you develop chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately. To learn more about stress-induced heart disease, visit http://tinyurl.com/yzeozad
