Introduction
Cardiogenic shock can be understood as a heart condition wherein the upper limilt of blood pressure, known as systolic blood pressure, remains less than 90 mmHg, as compared to the normal range of 100-120 mmHg, for a minimum of 30 minutes. It results in low blood pressure and low pulse rate, and thus the blood is not able to reach vital organs such as the brain, kidneys, lungs, etc. Altered mental state, decreased amount of urination, confusion, rapid breathing, sweaty hands are all the immediate effects of cardiogenic shock. This condition is generally seen in patients with a history of heart attack, called as myocardial infarction. Additionally, patients who are suffering from diabetes are twice more susceptible to develope a cardiogenic shock than non-diabetics. Nevertheless, the chance of recovery remains alike amongst both groups of patients.
What Causes Cardiogenic Shock?
Cardiogenic shock, also called cardiac shock, can occur due to multiple factors. Such factors include acute myocardial infarction, cardiac rupture, left or right ventricular dysfunction, and septal rupture. Despite all these factors, the most common cause of a cardiogenic shock remains a severe heart attack, but not everyone who suffers a heart attack has a cardiogenic shock. A swelling, called as an inflammation, of the heart muscles called myocarditis is also one of the reasons that cause a cardiogenic shock. Additionally, endocarditis or infection of heart valves, drug overdose, poisoning with substances that weaken the heart may also predispose an individual to a cardiogenic shock. Cardiogenic shocks have infrequent causes that include PVD or peripheral vascular diseases such as varicose veins, Raynaud’s phenomenon, aortic aneurysm, and pulmonary embolism.
What Are the Signs of Cardiogenic Shock?
Cardiogenic shock is rare. Also, it occurs in patients who are suffering from a heart attack. This is why, before understanding the signs of a cardiogenic shock, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms of a heart attack. So, what are the symptoms of a heart attack? These include:
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The discomfort starts from the left shoulder, goes up to the left arm, and returns to the left jaw. It can also happen on both left and right sides.
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Discomfort and pain in the left side of the chest radiate to the center of the chest, similar to a gas burn that goes away and returns after a few minutes.
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Profuse sweating in the forehead, scalp, palms.
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Feeling dizzy and lightheaded.
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Shortness of breath.
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Uncomfortable overall pressure similar to getting squeezed.
Clinical signs of cardiogenic shock include cold extremities, bluish skin discoloration due to no oxygenated blood flow, called cyanosis, altered mental state, rapid breathing, weak pulse, tachycardia which means abnormally rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure called hypotension, and eventually loss of consciousness. Attempt for quick medical intervention is mandatory to save organs from ultimate damage or multiple organ failures. The risk of developing a cardiogenic shock that sooner or later leads to a life-threatening emergency can be swayed off by alerting and acting instinctively at the first visible clinical sign.
How Is Cardiogenic Shock Diagnosed?
“Don’t wait until it is too late.” Visiting a doctor as soon as possible reduces the chances of developing any further complications, which can improve quality of life by reducing damages to the heart. A healthcare professional’s diagnostic evaluation of cardiogenic shock includes a complete blood checkup, enzymatic levels related to the cardiovascular system, ECG or electrocardiogram, and chest X-rays. These will only be requested after a thorough medical history is recorded. In addition to these, physical exams and various procedures to check all aspects of the cardiovascular system will be performed. Usually, these tests require hospital administration until declared stable.
How Can Cardiogenic Shock Be Prevented?
The best investment to make is in your health. A healthy body forever leads to a healthy life. Cardiogenic shock and many more diseases that pose a warning sign to depleting health can be kept at bay by following a healthy and mindful lifestyle. Individuals who are diabetic, hypertensive, or suffer from other clinical conditions must always keep regular consultation with their doctors as a priority. Keeping a check on vital signs, optimum blood levels, enzymes, hormones, and staying updated with medication cycles will ward off risks of developing a cardiogenic shock. On the other hand, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing intake of salt and high cholesterol foods, cutting back on sugar, and exercising regularly have proven to be beneficial in the fight against cardiovascular diseases that include cardiogenic shock, myocardial infarct as well as heart attacks.
How Can Cardiogenic Shock Be Managed?
Rapid diagnosis, cause identification, and emergency medical intervention is the key to treating and managing a case of cardiogenic shock. Initial stabilization is the first line of treatment that includes drugs such as Aspirin and Heparin. Fluids are also given to rule out any hypovolemic shock. Oxygen supply via a face mask to maintain a transparent ventilation system is necessary. To relieve the pain, Morphine can be administered. These are instituted with constant vitality check, urine output measurement, pulse rates, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation levels. It is crucial to get the blood pressure back to normal levels. Authentic and effective management must always be left on doctors, and one should never administer any medication without prior consultation. Since cardiogenic shock involves multiple organs, a group of medical experts usually come into the picture to provide supportive measures leading to the best treatment plan.
Conclusion
Cardiogenic shock demands immediate diagnosis and management. It is a treatable condition. Early intervention is crucial in reducing the rates of mortality and morbidity. Improving your knowledge on the signs and symptoms will result in better outcomes. Recovering post a cardiogenic shock calls for adapting to new and healthy lifestyle upgrades and regular follow-up with doctors to prevent another episode. If one is already suffering from a cardiovascular condition, taking care of one’s health by following the doctor’s instructions is obligatory. When the heart is at ease, the entire body is healthy.
