A new study finds cases of broken heart syndrome have increased during the coronavirus pandemic. RELATED: Why youre having weird, vivid dreams during coronavirus quarantineBroken heart syndrome has symptoms similar to a heart attack, like shortness of break or chest pains. However, people with broken heart syndrome dont usually have blocked arteries. Instead, stress changes the shape of the heart, which affects its ability to pump blood effectively. Hospitals are taking strict precautions to protect patients from the coronavirus and are urging people to seek care quickly for heart symptoms and any other emergencies.