What causes takotsubo cardiomyopathy?
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is brought on by an extremely stressful physical or emotional event. Common triggers can include the death of a loved one, a serious accident, a fierce argument, an unexpected loss or a sudden illness. These triggers are the reason for the condition’s nickname, broken heart syndrome.
What is takotsubo cardiomyopathy?
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is generally a short-term (temporary) type of heart condition. It can be triggered by an intense emotional or physical stress. It causes sudden chest pain or shortness of breath. The symptoms of TCM can look like a heart attack.
Does takotsubo damage the heart?
Takotsubo doesn’t always result in permanent damage to the heart, although full recovery may take some time. Recent research shows the effects may last much longer than first thought. Complications related to the initial takotsubo event can include: cardiac arrest (in very rare cases)
How long does takotsubo cardiomyopathy take to heal?
Signs & Symptoms Most individuals that develop takotsubo cardiomyopathy fully recover within one month, and recurrence is rare. However, complications occur in about 20% of patients.
What is the treatment for Takotsubo cardiomyopathy?
Medications commonly used to treat takotsubo cardiomyopathy include beta-blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drugs. These drugs promote heart muscle recovery. Anticoagulant drugs that interfere with blood clotting may be administered to avoid a stroke.
Why is it called takotsubo?
The term ‘takotsubo’ is taken from the Japanese name for an octopus pot, which has a unique shape that the left ventricle comes to resemble.
How is takotsubo diagnosis?
These tests include various blood tests, electrocardiogram (EKG), and echocardiography. A diagnosis is confirmed with cardiac angiography, an X-ray of the blood vessels performed with contrast dye in a cardiac catheterization laboratory.
Is dying of a broken heart real?
So yes, in fact, you can die of a broken heart, but it’s also extremely unlikely. It’s called broken heart syndrome and it can happen when an extremely emotional or traumatic event triggers a surge of stress hormones. These hormones can put you in short-term heart failure, which can be life-threatening.
Is Takotsubo cardiomyopathy usually fatal?
Death is rare, but heart failure occurs in about 20% of patients. Rarely reported complications include arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), obstruction of blood flow from the left ventricle, and rupture of the ventricle wall.