Last updated : Friday, February 3, 2012

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Can a Broken Heart Cause a Heart Attack?

Love is in the air as the month of February brings Valentine’s Day; a day recognized for celebrating love. On a more health conscious note, February is also known for being National Heart Month. Interestingly enough, new research has surfaced indicating that love and the heart may be more than just symbolically connected.

New research released by the American Heart Association indicates that the emotions stemming from a broken heart may actually contribute to physiological changes that can lead to a physical broken heart in the form of a heart attack. A recent study published in Circulation from the American Heart Association showed people are at an increased risk of having a heart attack soon after the death of loved family member or friend. The risk of having a heart attack is increased up to 21 percent during the first 24 hours after losing a loved one and can remain elevated for up to six months afterwards.

The link between the emotions of grief and bereavement are believed to increase the risk of heart attack. The extreme flood of emotions surrounding the loss of a loved one releases the body’s "fight or flight" hormones which cause physical changes such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, blood vessel constriction and inflammation, and promote blood clotting – all of which promote a heart attack.

In addition to these physical changes, behavioral changes may also occur from the immediate sadness. These behaviors include not eating properly or staying hydrated, not taking medication as prescribed, and possibly adopting destructive behavior such as smoking and indulging in alcohol. These behaviors can contribute to a weakened immune system and poor management of pre-existing medical conditions. Collectively, these changes can promote a dangerous physiological environment conducive to a heart attack especially for those with pre-existing risk factors.

So, although metaphorically there may not be much one can do to prevent the initial broken heart, there may be hope for preventing physical ramifications by reducing the likelihood of a heart attack. These interventions include identifying people in these situations and providing them adequate social support such as therapy or counseling. It is important to provide them with coping skills, techniques to manage grief and stress, and assistance in managing depression. Providing support and oversight to make sure they are eating adequately, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, not missing medical appointments, and managing any pre-existing medical conditions are also important. This is especially important for those who are already at risk for heart attacks even without the additional stress. Although mental health and support services have historically carried a negative or burdensome stigma, their absence in these situations can pose very real physical threats. If you are one who has frowned upon these services in the past, it is time to reconsider and act as if one’s life depends on it .... because literally just might.

For more:
Want to Lose Weight? Eat Like the Japanese

5 'Healthy' Foods That Can Ruin Your Diet

What a Man's Beer Choice Reveals About His Personality

Nurse Alice is a nationally board certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and Cardiopulmonary Program Director in Southern California with over 14 years specializing in cardiovascular medicine. She is also an ambassador for the American Heart Association.

 

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