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Why Does Heartbreak Feel Like Physical Pain?

"Have you ever wondered why heartbreak feels like a physical pain? It's an emotional turmoil that leaves a thro. In this article, we delve into the fascinating science behind why we feel such anguish when we part ways with a loved one. Get ready to explore the intricacies of the human heart, both figuratively and literally!"

Administrator

2 September, 2024

Love stories between you and your partner will always have their ups and downs. Being together brings joy and happiness, but there will likely be at least one occasion where individuals experience heartbreak. During this time, it’s common to feel sad, angry, and have a hurting heart. But why does this happen? Let’s explore this together.

1. What is heartbreak?

What is heartbreak?

According to Wikipedia, the feeling of breaking up with a lover or having romantic feelings for someone else but being rejected can be described as “heartbreak”. When you know a relationship has no future, saying goodbye is often the best option.

Heartbreak often leads to feelings of loneliness, despair, pain, and hurt. Interestingly, you may also experience physical heart pain and a lack of motivation to do anything.

Related: FA (Forever Alone) Collection for single people, those who have just broken up, or long-distance relationships…

2. Why does heartbreak cause heart pain?

Why does heartbreak cause heart pain?

Health explains that after a breakup or romantic rejection, our bodies are flooded with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, leading to an increased heart rate and irregular heartbeat (sometimes causing heart pain).

Additionally, Alternate mentions that a broken heart is also known as stress cardiomyopathy, which means the heart muscles suddenly weaken due to severe stress, presenting symptoms similar to a heart attack, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and low blood pressure.

Heartbreak can be overcome, and you will return to normal

These heart pains are usually temporary and not long-lasting. However, while it can be overcome, some cases may lead to death. According to Dr. Tim Graham Jackson, a cardiologist and Chairman of the Sexual Advice Association: “Everything starts right after the breakup and can last for one to two weeks. When you start worrying, adrenaline levels rise, and severe stress can cause sudden heart pain and even lead to death.”

3. How to overcome heartbreak

Let time heal

Time heals all wounds – given time, your stress will reduce, and you’ll feel calmer as you get used to the feeling.

Time heals all wounds

Face the issue

It’s essential to face the problem head-on and analyze why you and your partner were incompatible. If that’s challenging, make a list of their negative traits that you couldn’t accept.

Block or unfriend your ex on Facebook

Seeing their name or memories of them can be painful. Eventually, you’ll see them with someone new, and that won’t make you feel good. So, it’s best to avoid these situations.

Take care of your health

Eat healthily, exercise regularly, and do things you enjoy to distract yourself from sad feelings.

Take care of your health

Think positively

Think positively and tell yourself there are many other suitable people out there.

Cut off all contact with your ex, including on social media. Don’t neglect yourself, and instead, reach out to friends and family for support. You can also try , to help reduce stress.

Don’t neglect yourself

If you’re still struggling, consider seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist to guide you through this challenging time.

Find someone new when you’re ready

Finding someone new is another way to heal. You can forget the unhappy memories of your previous relationship and focus on building a new, happier one.

This article has explored why heartbreak causes heart pain and provided some strategies to help you through this difficult time. Remember, no matter how hurt you feel, you have family and friends by your side. Take care of yourself and don’t do anything that might harm you. Thank you for reading.

Frequently asked questions

The feeling of a broken heart can be so intense that it seems to manifest as physical pain. This is because the same parts of the brain are activated during social rejection and physical pain. Additionally, stress caused by heartbreak can lead to inflammation in the body, further exacerbating the sensation of pain.

The brain contains nerve fibers called C-fibers that respond to injury and send pain signals to the brain. These same C-fibers are also activated during social rejection, which is why the feeling of a broken heart can be so intense and similar to physical pain.

Heartbreak can have a range of physical effects on the body, including increased stress levels, inflammation, and a weakened immune system. It can also lead to changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and even cardiovascular problems.

It’s important to allow yourself to feel the emotions and grieve the loss. Seeking social support from friends and family can help, as well as engaging in self-care activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies that bring you joy. Time is also a healer, and with it, the intense pain of heartbreak will gradually fade.