Stress named cause of rare heart disease

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Stress itself, according to doctors, cannot lead to a heart attack. But chronic stress accompanies the development of hypertension. And high blood pressure is one of the important factors that provoke myocardial infarction.

Constant anxiety is associated with a higher risk of many types of heart disease: coronary heart disease, heart failure, and heart rhythm disorders such as tachycardia. In addition, stress can contribute to the formation of unhealthy habits that people find difficult to cope with. These often include smoking cigarettes, drinking large amounts of alcohol, and overeating.

Sudden stress can directly cause a rare condition called “broken heart syndrome,” American cardiologist Lauren Gilstrap told Insider. Tatsukobo cardiomyopathy, named after a Japanese octopus trap, is often confused with a heart attack.

This disease causes chest pain and shortness of breath. Cardiomyopathy occurs when there is severe stress, such as the sudden death of a loved one. “People think they are having a heart attack. But they are not,” explains Gilstrap. A heart attack occurs when an artery leading to the heart becomes blocked. “Broken heart syndrome” occurs, according to some doctors, due to a sudden surge in hormones.

“Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a phenomenon that is fundamentally different from a heart attack. Everything is fine with the arteries, the blood supply is normal, but suddenly the heart stops contracting,” the cardiologist said. Acute heart failure occurs. The heart does not work effectively for two to four weeks, but in most patients the function of the heart muscle is fully restored within two months. The condition is quite rare: only 2% of heart attacks are actually “broken heart syndrome,” according to the doctor.

Reducing and managing stress through mindfulness, exercise, and hobbies is an important part of overall health and can improve heart health. Dr. Gilstrap encourages his patients to take a realistic look at the stressors in their lives and adjust what they can, without worrying too much about what’s out of their control.