Takotsubo Syndrome
Description
Definition
Acute, transient weakening of the left ventricle that causes it to enlarge at the apex (bottom) and contract at the base is known as Takotsubo Syndrome (TTS).
The name comes from the shape's resemblance to a Japanese "takotsubo" octopus trap pot.
Also known as:
Syndrome of broken hearts
Cardiomyopathy brought on by stress
Syndrome of Apical Ballooning
The cardiomyopathy of Takotsubo
Risk Factors
More prevalent in: Women (about 90% of cases)
Age >50 (most affected are postmenopausal women)
Individuals suffering with sadness, anxiety, or other mental illnesses
Up to 5,000 instances each year in the UK, although not genetic.
🔹 Symptoms (Simulating a Heart Attack)
Typical:
Abrupt, severe chest discomfort
Heaviness or pressure in the chest
Breathlessness
Less frequent:
Heart palpitations
dizziness and fainting
Causes / Triggers
The cause is unknown.
The suggested mechanism An increase in stress hormones harms the heart.
Triggers:
Emotional strain (loss of a loved one, mourning, separation, and financial strain)
Physical strain (disease, surgery, or injury)
Unexpected mental trauma
Diagnosis
Usually found during a heart attack workup.
Blood testing revealed elevated cardiac enzymes, albeit not as much as in a typical MI.
ECG → QT prolongation (similar to MI), T-wave inversion, and ST elevation.
Typically, a coronary angiography shows no clogged arteries, ruling out MI.
Apical ballooning and poor LV contraction are seen on the echocardiogram.
MRI → comprehensive anatomy and function of the heart.
Diagnosis made when:
MI ruled out (no coronary obstruction).
LV has poor pumping and ballooning.
A recent, significant stressor is frequently present.
Protocol
management
transitory and supportive, with the goal of promoting the heart's healing:
Diuretics:
lessen fluid overload if you're having trouble breathing.
Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors/ARBs help the heart perform better by lowering stress.
Anticoagulants (if there is atrial fibrillation or a significant risk of clotting).
Hospitalisation:
Since heart failure and arrhythmias can happen suddenly, patients are frequently kept for monitoring.
Interventions in Nursing
Evaluation and Monitoring: Regularly check oxygen saturation, heart rhythm, and vital signs. Keep an eye out for any changes that could indicate cardiac failure, shock, or arrhythmias, and notify the medical staff right away if anything seems off.
Cardiac Support: To identify issues such as arrhythmias or cardiogenic shock, provide ongoing cardiac and haemodynamic monitoring. Be ready to respond quickly in the event of instability.
Differential Diagnosis: Due to their comparable appearances, work carefully with the medical team to distinguish between myocardial infarction and takotsubo syndrome. In order to identify patients at higher risk and to collect clinical history, nurses are essential, especially when it comes to recent periods of severe mental or physical stress.
Medication Administration: If necessary, safely give prescription drugs such beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and anticoagulants. Keep an eye out for efficacy and adverse effects.
Notes
For more Information Visit https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/conditions/takotsubo-cardiomyopathy