About this topic
Stress-induced cardiomyopathy is a short-term heart condition. It is also known as broken heart syndrome. This condition has signs that are like a heart attack. Your blood vessels are not blocked like they are with a heart attack. The signs happen because your body releases a large amount of stress hormones. Then, the heart muscle does not work as well as it should. You may have problems with breathing or chest pain. Most often you will be better in 1 to 4 weeks. ‚
What are the causes?
Doctors do not know the exact cause of this condition. It may be due to a large amount of stress hormones. These may be released when you have a strong emotional event like: ‚
- Death of a loved one
- Scary times like public speaking
- Break-up
- Domestic abuse
- Constant worry
- Surprise party
- Serious health problems or diagnosis of a serious medical problem
- Serious financial problems or gambling losses
- Natural disasters
- Physical or extreme emotional stress
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have this problem if you are a woman. Your risk is also higher if you are over 50 years old. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Abnormal or rapid heartbeat
- Lack of strength
- Feeling tired
- Fainting
- Shock
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Your doctor may order tests like: ‚
- Lab tests
- Chest x-ray
- Coronary angiography ¢ ˆ ’ Looks for blocked blood vessel in your heart
- Echocardiogram ¢ ˆ ’ Uses sound waves to see the structure, action, and blood flow in your heart
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) ¢ ˆ ’ Measures the hearts electrical action
- Cardiac catheterization ¢ ˆ ’ Looks for blocked arteries. It is often done if the above tests are not certain.
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor may order drugs, I.V. fluids, or nutrition to treat your condition. Care may be like the care you would have if you have a heart attack. Most often, the patient stays in the hospital until feeling better. ‚
The doctors do not often suggest surgery to treat this condition. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Learn ways to manage stress and relax. Try guided imagery, yoga, or deep breathing.
- Talk to your doctor if you have problems with your stress level.
- Stay away from stress or things that cause worry.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Control blood pressure
- Help your heart to pump well
- Prevent blood clots
- Control heartbeat
- Help with pain
- Help you relax
- Reduce worry
Will there be any other care needed?
This condition may cause some health problems if not treated right away. These include: ‚
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Fluid build-up in the lungs
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no clear way to prevent this condition. ‚
Helpful tips
- If you have chest pain of trouble breathing, call for emergency help and go to the ER right away.
- Try to relax when you feel pain in your chest. Slow, deep breathing will help.
- Having a brown paper bag with you can be helpful when you are having breathing troubles. You should breathe with the brown paper bag fully covering your nose and mouth. This will control the oxygen you breathe.
Where can I learn more?
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute ‚
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hdw/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚