Overview
Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition characterized by the heart’s sudden inability to pump sufficient oxygen-rich blood to meet the body’s needs. Although most commonly triggered by a severe heart attack, not every heart attack leads to cardiogenic shock. This rare condition demands immediate medical attention and can be fatal if left untreated. When promptly addressed, approximately half of those affected survive.
Types of Cardiogenic Shock
- Cardiogenic Shock due to Heart Attack: The primary cause, often resulting from damage to the heart’s main pumping chamber (left ventricle).
- Cardiogenic Shock due to Heart Failure: Weakened heart function impairs blood flow.
- Other Causes: Rarely, damage to the right ventricle or other heart problems can lead to cardiogenic shock.
Causes of Cardiogenic Shock
- Heart Attack: Most common cause, resulting in oxygen deprivation to the heart muscle.
- Myocarditis: Inflammation of heart muscles.
- Endocarditis: Infection of heart valves.
- Drug Overdoses or Poisoning: Substances affecting heart function.
- Weakened Heart from Any Cause: Including long-term valvular disease.
Risk Factors of Cardiogenic Shock
- Advanced Age
- Previous Heart Attacks
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- High Blood Pressure
Symptoms of Cardiogenic Shock
1. Rapid Breathing: Increased respiratory rate due to inadequate oxygen delivery.
2. Severe Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, even at rest.
3. Sudden, Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia): Heart rate exceeds normal limits.
4. Loss of consciousness: Fainting or feeling lightheaded.
5. Weak Pulse: Faint or barely detectable pulse.
6. Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Blood pressure drops significantly.
7. Sweating: Profuse sweating, often cold and clammy.
8. Pale skin: Reduced blood flow leads to paleness.
9. Cold Hands or Feet: Poor circulation affects extremities.
10. Reduced Urination: Kidneys receive insufficient blood flow.
Preventions of Cardiogenic Shock
- Avoid Smoking
- Maintain a Heart-Healthy Diet
- Regular Exercise
- Limit Alcohol Intake
Diagnosis of Cardiogenic Shock
- Blood Pressure Measurement: Low values indicate cardiogenic shock.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Assesses heart rhythm and rates.
- X-ray: Detects heart enlargement or lung fluid.
- Echocardiogram: Images heart for possible damage.
- Arterial Blood Gas Test: Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Elevated white blood cell count may indicate infection.
- Swan-Ganz Catheterization: Determines shock cause.
Treatment for Cardiogenic Shock
- Medication: Inotropic drugs (e.g., Dobutamine, Milrinone), antiplatelets (e.g., Tirofiban, Abciximab), thrombolytics (e.g., Reteplase), and blood thinners (e.g., Heparin).
- Procedures: Balloon pump, angioplasty, stent placement, heart transplant, and heart valve repair.
When to seek medical attention ?
- Heart Attack Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, lightheadedness, nausea, and vomiting.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention to prevent cardiogenic shock.
