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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffBroken heart syndrome symptoms can mimic a heart attack. Common symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- An irregular heartbeat
- A generalized weakness
Any long-lasting or persistent chest pain could be a sign of a heart attack, so it's important to take it seriously and call 911 if you experience chest pain.
When to see a doctor
If you're having any chest pain, a very rapid or irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath after a stressful event, call 911 or emergency medical assistance immediately.
References
- Nef HM, et al. Mechanisms of stress (Takotsubo) cardiomyopathy. Nature Reviews. 2010;7:187.
- Wynne J, et al. Cardiomyopathy and myocarditis. In: Fauci AS, et al. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw Hill Medical; 2008. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2902533. Accessed Dec. 8, 2010.
- Brenner ZR, et al. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Heart and Lung. 2008;37:1.
- Derrick D. The "broken heart syndrome": Understanding Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Critical Care Nurse. 2009;29:49.
- Grogan M (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 14, 2010.
- Martin EA, et al. Endothelial function and vascular response to mental stress are impaired in patients with apical ballooning syndrome. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2010;56:1840.
- Rosenow E (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 11, 2010.
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