You can actually die from a broken heart!

Though more common in women, men are twice as likely to die from Broken Heart Syndrome, studies suggest.

Amidst the joy and kilig of the season, hugot lines and sad songs linger for those who are “sawi sa pag-ibig.” Many claim their hearts are broken, but in reality, a broken heart can actually cause death.

Labeled Broken Heart Syndrome, or formally, Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy, it occurs when severe emotional or physical stress releases an intense amount of stress hormones (catecholamines) like adrenaline. This surge enlarges and changes the shape of the heart’s left ventricle. The phenomenon is also known as Takotsubo Syndrome, named after a Japanese octopus trap that resembles the heart’s distorted shape.

While the condition involves no blocked arteries, the symptoms are still similar to a heart attack including sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and nausea.

Cardiologists don’t suggest turning a blind eye even if it seems exaggerated. In a 2025 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers found out that despite the condition actually being more common in women, men are more likely to die with a mortality rate of 11.2% compared to 5.5% for women.

Most people recover, but without proper treatment, it can lead to lifelong complications resulting in death.

Here are some tips that can be useful in healing a broken heart:

• At the surge of panic, take deep breaths or immerse yourself in cold water to calm the adrenaline surge.
• A fit heart can handle stress hormones more efficiently so aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity and exercise in a week.
• Get enough sleep (7 – 9 hours is recommended) as this can help lower cortisol levels keeping the heart in good shape.
• Instead of bottling up all emotions, try talking to someone from social connections to medical professionals. Just having someone listen can lift a weight off your shoulders.

Love can either fill the heart with immense happiness or intense pain, sometimes it can even be life-threatening. So remember to take care of your hearts this Valentine’s season.

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