Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM)

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (also called stress-induced cardiomyopathy or “broken heart syndrome”) happens when the heart’s main pumping chamber - the left ventricle - suddenly becomes weakened.

This usually occurs after a surge of stress hormones such as adrenaline, often triggered by sudden emotional or physical stress (for example, a bereavement, accident, or medical emergency). These hormones affect how the heart muscle contracts.

During an episode, the tip (apex) of the heart balloons outwards while the upper part of the heart continues to contract normally or even more strongly than usual. This changes the heart’s shape and reduces its ability to pump blood effectively, causing chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms that can mimic a heart attack.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy is usually temporary. Most people recover normal heart function within days to weeks, although some may take longer. Complications such as heart rhythm problems, heart failure, or recurrence can occasionally occur.

Who gets it?

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy affects women much more often than men, particularly those over 50 years old.

In Australia and New Zealand, it’s uncommon but not rare - it’s thought to cause around 1-2% of cases where people come to hospital with symptoms of a suspected heart attack.

Unlike other forms of cardiomyopathy (such as hypertrophic or dilated cardiomyopathy), Takotsubo is not inherited and does not run in families. Episodes are usually linked to sudden stress rather than a genetic cause.

The following diagram, courtesy of Wikipedia, illustrates the difference between a normal heart and one with TCM.