The unpredictability and abruptness of the condition is what makes it deadly. However, it is important to note that death by a broken heart or happy heart syndrome is extremely rare.
It commonly occurs following a very stressful event, such as the death of a loved one, a natural disaster, or a physical stress.
According to the AHA, in 85% of cases, takotsubo is triggered by an emotionally or physically stressful event that precedes the onset of symptoms by minutes to hours.
“Emotional stressors include grief (death of a loved one), fear (armed robbery, public speaking), anger (argument with spouse), relationship conflicts (dissolution of marriage), and financial problems (gambling loss, job loss),” as per the health body.
Physical stressors on the other hand comprise acute asthma, surgery, chemotherapy, and stroke.
