We’ve all had our hearts broken at one point or another and if you haven’t I’d argue that you’re incredibly lucky (in which case you should go out right now an buy a lotto ticket). Losing someone you have a close connection with can feel unbearable initially and these intense feelings of loss can lead to social isolation, increased drinking behavior and risky behaviors such as unprotected sex in an effort to feel better.
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Researchers are now finding out that a broken heart has more impact on our heart (literally) than we thought and you can actually die from a broken heart. In a recent article by Elle Magazine, Annette Sciberras shared her story about her diagnosis of stress cardiomyopathy after the death of her mother. Stress cardiomyopathy (SC) is often diagnosed as heart attacks in women and also informally known as broken heart syndrome.
Basically, the level of emotional stress we experience can increase our adrenaline which puts strain on the heart’s pumping ability. The most common symptoms are chest pains, nausea, dizziness, pain the back of the jaw, fatigue, short of breath and pain in the back of jaw. SC doesn’t involve obstructions in the heart but does increase stress hormones during situations of fight or flight. Director of women’s health in Lenox Hill Hospital Suzanne Steinbaum reports that too much hormones can shock your heart and cause strain leading to SC.
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The good news is most symptoms of SC is temporary and can be elevated through stress reduction techniques such as meditation, good diet, regular sleep habits and exercise.
Amy Yew is a registered clinical counselor and relationship therapist. She is also the author of a fashion and lifestyle blog Style du Jour. Tell us what you think and submit any questions you have to [email protected].
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