WITH Valentine’s Day approaching, a consultant has warned about the dangers of broken heart syndrome.

February 14 can often leave those who are unlucky in love broken-hearted, but the broken heart is a genuine medical condition.

Medically known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, broken heart syndrome occurs during highly stressful or emotional times and causes symptoms similar to a heart attack.

Those experiencing break-ups, grief, a job loss or anger can experience chest pains and difficulty breathing.

Dr Serge Osula, consultant cardiologist at Spire Cheshire Hospital in Stretton, said: “During an extremely stressful event the heart can be overwhelmed with a surge of adrenalin and other stress hormones.

“It is difficult to distinguish between broken heart syndrome and a heart attack, so anyone experiencing chest pains or difficulty in breathing should assume the worst and call 999 immediately.

“If patients are under the care of physicians familiar with this syndrome even the most critically ill tend to make a quick and complete recovery within six to eight weeks.”

National Heart Month is celebrated during February, and Dr Orsula encouraged residents to get clued up about heart disease.

He said: “Despite major national campaigns and massive media coverage of heart disease and how and how to keep it healthy, it is amazing how little people know about their most vital organ.

“Keeping your heart healthy is vital but so is taking action if you think something is wrong – the faster you seek expert advice the more likely it is that problems can be corrected.

“Ignoring the signs of heart problems is really not an option.”