A broken heart is a real condition. The medical name it is takotsubo cardiomyopathy. It is caused severe emotional or physical stress. This stress can come losing a loved one or breaking up a romantic partner. Doctors think they have a cure it. Researchers Aberdeen University in Scotland conducted a 12-week test 76 people broken heart syndrome. The patients had a weekly counselling session. They also took part an exercise programme, which included aerobics, cycling and swimming. The British Heart Foundation said it was surprised how much the counselling "improved heart function and patients' fitness".
Hundreds thousands of people worldwide suffer broken heart syndrome. It mainly affects women and can double the risk dying early. The syndrome may explain why a spouse dies soon their partner's death. Sufferers feel like they are having a heart attack. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness breath, and fatigue. The syndrome makes the heart change shape. The heart becomes rounder, an octopus. "Takotsubo" is a Japanese word. It means a round pot used to catch an octopus. Lead researcher Dr David Gamble said his research highlights the importance the brain-heart relationship. He said mental and physical therapy can help sufferers.
