Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic Shock Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of cardiogenic shock include increased breathing rate, severe dyspnea, tachycardia, loss of consciousness, feeble pulse, low blood pressure levels, sweating, dull skin, cold extremities, inadequate episodes of urination, anxiety, and fatigue.

Cardiogenic Shock Causes

Most cases of cardiogenic shock are caused by damage to the left ventricle due to a lack of oxygen to the heart during a heart attack. This can weaken the heart muscle and lead to inadequate blood flow. However, in rare cases, cardiogenic shock can be caused by damage to the right ventricle, which is responsible for pumping blood to the lungs to get oxygen before being delivered to other parts of the body.

Other conditions that can lead to cardiogenic shock include inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), inflammation around the inner lining of the heart and adjacent valves (endocarditis), irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), excessive fluid or blood around the heart (pericardial tamponade), and blockage of an artery, mainly in the lung, by a blood clot (pulmonary embolism).

Diagnosis of Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock is diagnosed in emergency settings based on various signs and symptoms of shock. Tests performed to confirm the cause include blood pressure measurement, electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), chest X-ray, blood tests, echocardiogram, and cardiac catheterization (angiogram). Blood tests check for organ damage and infection levels while an arterial blood gas test measures oxygen levels. An ECG detects damaged heart muscle or fluid accumulation around the heart. A chest X-ray helps to identify the size and shape of the heart and fluid near the lungs. An echocardiogram detects damage resulting from a heart attack, and a cardiac catheterization reveals the location of narrowed or blocked arteries.

Cardiogenic Shock Treatment

In cardiogenic shock, emergency treatment is crucial to prevent organ damage. Oxygen is usually administered via a ventilator, and fluids and medications are given through an IV line. Medications to treat cardiogenic shock include vasopressors, inotropic agents, aspirin, antiplatelet medication, and blood-thinning medications.

Surgical procedures to restore blood flow through the heart are also used, including angioplasty and stent, balloon pump, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, coronary artery bypass surgery, ventricular assist device, and heart transplant.

Cardiogenic Shock Risk Factors

The risk of developing cardiogenic shock is significantly higher in patients with a history of heart attack, particularly if they are older, have a history of heart failure or coronary artery disease, and have diabetes or high blood pressure. Female patients are also at increased risk.

Complications of Cardiogenic Shock

Severe cardiogenic shock left untreated can deprive organs of sufficient oxygen supply via the blood, resulting in temporary or permanent damage. For instance, it may cause brain damage, stroke, liver or kidney failure, and even heart attack. If organs suffer permanent damage, it can ultimately lead to death.

Preventions of Cardiogenic Shock

The main goal in preventing cardiogenic shock is to avoid repeated episodes of its underlying causes. These causes include high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and high cholesterol levels. Seeking immediate medical attention if experiencing any heart attack symptoms is crucial. For those with a history of heart attack, prescribed medications may help maintain a healthy heart. Consistent medical consultation is recommended for those with high blood pressure or history of heart attack. Maintaining a healthy weight by exercising regularly, consuming a healthy diet, reducing sugar intake, and limiting alcohol consumption are all suggested ways to prevent cardiogenic shock.

When to See a Doctor?

The prompt suggests that getting immediate medical help for heart attack symptoms can improve survival chances and limit heart damage. Patients are advised to call emergency medical services when they experience heart attack symptoms. However, it is crucial to have someone else drive them to the nearest hospital instead of driving themselves.