Cardiac Assessment and Takotsubo-stunning Among COPD-exacerbations In-Hospital

This study is looking at whether a heart condition called Takotsubo syndrome ("broken heart syndrome" — temporary heart muscle weakness caused by stress) occurs undetected during severe COPD flare-ups that require hospital admission. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You have been admitted to hospital for a sudden worsening of COPD (acute exacerbation) - You are enrolled within 72 hours of admission - You are able to give written informed consent **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a history of heart attack or pre-existing heart wall motion problems or reduced heart pumping function (ejection fraction below 50%) - You have significant cognitive impairment (such as dementia) that would prevent you from following the study protocol Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.