As many celebrate Valentine’s Day, some people are head-over-heels in love – while others experience heartache. That leads to the question: Can you die of a broken heart? According to some experts, the answer is ‘yes.’ Broken heart syndrome (takotsubo cardiomyopathy), can even be fatal, says Dr. Don Bucklin. It’s when the heart gets a shock from extreme stress or sadness and doesn’t beat very well. Bucklin says symptoms mimic a heart attack and include chest pain, shortness of breath and irregular heartbeat.
 He says broken heart syndrome can strike anyone, but mostly affects women over age 55, often after a major physical strain, like surgery, or mental hardship, like the death of a loved one. It can also be triggered by other major life events – from job loss or divorce, to accidents and natural disasters.
 Bucklin says if you’re experiencing what you believe are heart attack symptoms, call 9-1-1 and get emergency treatment. Doctors can perform tests to determine whether it’s a heart attack – or a bout of broken heart syndrome.
 Treatment of broken heart syndrome may include heart medications, such as A-C-E inhibitors, beta blockers, or diuretics, plus longer-term stress management. According to the National Coalition for Women With Heart Disease, most patients make a full recovery within one to two months.