Illustrative photo. Image of 5933179 from Pixabay
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Researchers have learned why some people die after a stressful event in their lives. The study by Imperial College London shows how ‘broken heart syndrome’ occurs and what actually happens when a person goes through an emotional shock.
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A study by Imperial College London and published in the journal Cardiovascular Research says that stressful events increase the level of two molecules in the heart cells, which play a crucial role in the development of stress-induced cardiomyopathy – also called ‘broken heart syndrome’, conform Daily Mail.
As the molecules are closely linked to depression, anxiety and stress, long-term suffering, followed by emotional shock, could trigger ‘broken heart syndrome’. This ‘syndrome’ occurs when the heart muscle suddenly becomes weak and the left ventricle changes shape.
The symptoms are similar to those of a heart attack, including chest pain and shortness of breath.
‘Study confirms that previous stress and associated microRNAs may predispose a person to the development of Takotsubo syndrome’
Professor Sian Harding, from Imperial College London, explained: ‘Takotsubo syndrome is a serious condition, but so far the way it appears has been a mystery. We don’t understand why some people respond in this way to a sudden emotional shock, while others do not. ‘
‘This study confirms that previous stress and its associated microRNAs may predispose a person to the development of Takotsubo syndrome in future stressful situations. Stress comes in many forms and we need further research to understand these chronic stress processes.‘, he specified.
Although there are currently no treatments that can prevent the recurrence of Takotsubo syndrome, the study cited could help in this regard.
‘Drugs that block these microRNAs could be key to preventing broken heart syndrome’
Professor Metin Avkiran, associate medical director at the British Heart Foundation, said on the subject that ‘Takotsubo syndrome is a sudden and potentially catastrophic heart problem, but our knowledge of its causes remains limited. As such, it is vital that we learn more about this neglected condition and develop new ways to prevent and treat it. ‘
‘This research is not only a crucial step towards a better understanding of this mysterious disease, but it could also provide new ways to identify and treat those at risk for Takotsubo. We now need further research to determine whether drugs that block these microRNAs could be key to preventing broken heart syndrome, ‘added Professor Metin Avkiran, according to Mediafax.
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