A broken heart can be more than an emotional metaphor—it can also signal a serious medical condition. News On 6 anchor LeAnne Taylor explained in this week’s Medical Minute that broken heart syndrome, a rapid weakening of heart muscles, often follows emotional or physical stress and carries significant health risks.

What is broken heart syndrome?

Broken heart syndrome occurs when part of the heart muscle weakens suddenly, causing the base of the heart to squeeze abnormally while the rest balloons outward. Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by blocked arteries, broken heart syndrome is not due to blockages but rather reduced blood flow.

The condition typically affects people over 50 and is more common in women than men. Common triggers include the loss of a loved one, breakups, div

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