The doctor spoke about the causes and dangers of "broken heart syndrome"

Doctors warn of a little—known but dangerous condition, broken heart syndrome, which can develop after a severe emotional shock. As explained by Denis Sokolov, PhD, cardiologist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), in an interview with Izvestia on May 14, this disease, also known as Takotsubo syndrome, looks like a heart attack, but has a fundamentally different nature.

"The condition with this syndrome resembles a heart attack, but unlike it happens due to intense stress — physical or emotional. It is manifested by a temporary weakening of the heart muscle caused by emotional shock or trauma," explained the cardiologist.

According to the expert, the most common causes of the syndrome are severe psychological trauma: the death of a loved one, divorce, serious financial losses or health problems.

In addition, the doctor noted that postmenopausal women are particularly vulnerable to this condition — they are diagnosed with the syndrome ten times more often than men or young women. However, men may also experience this syndrome, but research shows that they are less likely to develop it.

"However, when the syndrome occurs in men, it can be more severe, which increases the likelihood of serious complications. This may be due to physiological differences in the cardiovascular system, hormonal background and psychoemotional state," Sokolov explained.

He clarified that men aged 60-64 years are more likely to develop the syndrome due to physical stress, for example, after surgery or strokes, which can worsen the symptoms.

According to the cardiologist, representatives of professions associated with chronic stress are at special risk.: rescuers, doctors, police officers, financiers, as well as creative workers and professional athletes. Their daily activities are associated with high emotional stress, which makes the cardiovascular system more vulnerable.

To prevent broken heart syndrome, it is important to reduce stress levels and develop coping skills in difficult situations. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can be effective measures. Maintaining and strengthening social ties, including the support of family and friends, plays a key role in emotional stability. Regular medical examinations help to monitor the state of health, especially the cardiovascular system. The specialist noted that in case of emotional difficulties, it is useful to work with a psychologist. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, moderate physical activity, adequate sleep (7-9 hours a day) and avoiding bad habits such as smoking and alcohol, helps reduce the risk of not only broken heart syndrome, but also other cardiovascular diseases. Relaxation techniques, including breathing exercises and warm baths, can also help.

"Although it is impossible to completely prevent the "broken heart syndrome", reducing stress levels and developing coping skills can significantly reduce the risk of its occurrence. This condition requires careful attention, and understanding its mechanisms, as well as following preventive measures, can minimize its impact on quality of life," the expert concluded.

On April 23, Natalia Zolotareva, a cardiologist and somnologist at the SM Clinic, told Izvestia about the dangerous consequences of atherosclerosis. According to her, atherosclerosis can lead to heart attack, stroke and even gangrene. In addition, the first signs of the appearance of the disease are not excluded in 20-30 years.