Broken Heart Syndrome Risk for Women

Every one knows about the word broken heart, people still connect with the problem of romance. In fact, the broken heart is a phenomenon that occurs in the heart, and therefore may vary, and not just about romance.

The broken heart syndrome is a disorder of the heart due to a temporary physical or emotional stress in extreme. This syndrome is more common in women than men. Research suggests that this syndrome is more likely to be experienced by older women.

The broken heart syndrome is clinically known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. This syndrome causes an enlarged heart, in part for a while, while others are operating normally or contract more powerfully. Similar symptoms can trigger a heart attack and chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat and feeling faint. This condition can usually be treated and cured within a week.

This syndrome may be preceded by the sudden death of a loved one, scary medical diagnosis, a car accident or even a surprise party. This is 7.5 times more often experienced by women. Women aged 55 and older are 2.9 times more likely to experience broken heart syndrome than younger women.

The researchers analyzed national data in 2007 and found that in approximately 6230 cases of broken heart syndrome, over 89% of patients are women. About a third of patients were aged between 50 and 65, while 58% were over the age of 65.

"This is the first time we had a real illness that indicates the relationship between the mind and heart," said Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, director of the health of women and heart disease at the hospital Lenox Hill in New York.
"We should not underestimate the effect of mind on the heart. Stress gives an emotional state that may affect the heart, "said Steinbaum who is also spokesman for the American Heart Association.

But researchers are still finding the fact why women are more at risk of broken heart syndrome. The differences in hormones and coronary artery between the sexes may be a contributing factor. However, research is still needed.

Posted in: Women health