Medical professionals in Israel are reporting a rise in cases of so called broken heart syndrome as the ongoing war places civilians under intense psychological strain. The condition, formally known as stress induced cardiomyopathy, mimics the symptoms of a heart attack and can be life threatening, but is triggered by extreme emotional distress rather than blocked arteries.

One recent patient, a 78 year old woman from Kfar Saba, experienced severe chest pain after a powerful explosion struck her home before she could reach shelter. She was taken to Meir Medical Center with suspected heart attack symptoms, but doctors later determined that her condition was caused by acute emotional trauma.

Health experts say the surge in cases highlights the deep connection between mental stress and physical health, particularly during periods of conflict. As attacks and alarms continue to disrupt daily life, physicians warn that prolonged anxiety and fear may be contributing to a growing number of stress related cardiac events.