Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) also known as 'broken heart syndrome', is a condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weakened, leading to a ballooning effect that impairs its ability to pump blood. The name 'Takotsubo' comes from a Japanese octopus trap, which resembles the shape of the heart in this condition.
This condition is often triggered by extremely stressful events, such as the loss of a loved one, severe illness, or intense emotional stress. It usually affects how the heart works temporarily, and most people recover in a few weeks with appropriate treatment.
The following diagram, courtesy of Wikipedia, illustrates the difference between a normal heart and one with TCM.
