Feel free to cry over a pint of ice cream — but it’s not what’s going to mend your broken heart.

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy — commonly known as broken heart syndrome — is a very real condition that is typically brought on by severe emotional distress, such as the loss of a loved one.

It’s not just about big feelings, though: It causes the heart muscle to change shape and weaken suddenly.

But a new study has confirmed two fairly simple things that can make an observable difference in patients’ hearts. 3

Broken heart syndrome mimics the physical effects of a heart attack, including chest pain and shortness of breath, and can bring on symptoms of fatigue and heart failure.

Most concerning? Patients with broken heart syndrome face double the risk of early death.

“In takotsubo syndrome

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