Dying from a broken heart is possible in elderly, study says

September 11, 2014  22:58

The elderly really can die of a broken heart because grief weakens their immune systems.

Researchers at the University of Birmingham in the UK found grieving in the elderly causes stress hormones to become unbalanced, which can lead to a reduction in immune system cells.

The new study, published in the journal Immunity and Ageing, focused on 100 participants, half of whom were aged over 65, and the others aged 18-45. The younger patients were found to have a more robust immune response to heartbreak, according FoxNews.

“I believe it is the answer to why we sometimes see wives and husbands dying soon after the death of a spouse, who is their main social support,” Dr. Anna Phillips, a researcher at University of Birmingham told The Telegraph. “They are not dying of a broken heart, but the effect the stress is having on their immune function.”

The researchers believe prescribed hormonal supplements at times of great stress may help to alleviate the effects of grieving on the immune system.

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter


 
  • Video
 
 
  • Event calendar
 
 
  • Archive
 
  • Most read
 
  • Find us on Facebook
 
  • Poll
Are you aware that in 2027 medical insurance will become mandatory for all Armenian citizens?
I’m aware, and I'm in favor
I’m not aware, and I'm against
I'm aware, but I'm still undecided
I'm not aware, but in principle I'm in favor
I'm not aware, but in principle I'm against
It doesn't matter to me