Your grandfather passes away and your grandmother begins complaining of chest pain. Is there a connection? Some people, especially women age 50 and older, may sustain heart injury after an intense physical or emotional event, such as after hearing bad news. It's known as broken heart syndrome. While people who have broken heart syndrome usually recover, play it safe. If a loved one complains of chest pain after a traumatic event, have him or her seek emergency medical care right away.