Long before science knew what heart is , long before scientists dissected it, heart was the centre of human emotions. Earlier philosophers even thought brain actually resides in heart and heart controlled the human body.
Even centuries after we know about the four chambers -auricles/ upper two and lower chambers/ventricles, we still talk about heart as the source of affection.
Yes we know Veins and aorta, we still talk about the heart metaphorically. How it aches and pains for someone. How is it occupied by someone or reverse of it.
But does this metaphorical heart have its impact on the real one. when you think of your loved one, how you do feel the warmth in your heart, or even skip a beat or how does your heart race full speed.
Or when the metaphorical heart is hurt, is your actual heart affected as well. Does the pain of longing actually have an impact on your health. Does heart break really break your heart.
Were the bodies of the star crossed lovers like Laila majnu or Romeo and Juliet already affected due to blood pressure problems and would they have died anyways from a broken heart irrespective of the trauma.
What do scientists say.
They say it’s the brain. “Falling in love," that rush of emotion actually begins deep in the brain. The feel good neurotransmitter, Dopamine is released in the brain. This chemical asks us to take the next step- too much suppresses serotonin-affecting our mood/ feeling of well-being or happiness.
So when you feel that tremor in your heart it’s the brain telling your body to release adrenaline and norepinephrine and ofcourse oxytocin- hormone of love which seals the deal everytime you kiss/hug.
But love they say is surely good for heart.
Studies show the mix of these harmones is good for your nervous system as well as your heart. It lowers blood pressure keeps your heart healthy and pumping.
A sad heart does break-depression causes more vascular inflammation/blood clotting and hence attack heart. Divorces and breakups increase the risk and danger is more in first heartbreak.