Key Points

• Cardiogenic shock is a state in which a weakened heart isn't able to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It is a medical emergency and is fatal if not treated right away.
• The medical term "shock" refers to a state in which not enough blood and oxygen reach important organs in the body, such as the brain and kidneys.
• The most common cause of cardiogenic shock is damage to the heart muscle from a severe heart attack. However, less than 10 percent of people who have a heart attack develop cardiogenic shock.
• Common signs and symptoms of cardiogenic shock include:
  • Confusion or lack of alertness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • A sudden, rapid heartbeat
  • Sweating
  • Pale skin
  • Weak pulse
  • Rapid breathing
  • Decreased or no urine output
  • Cool hands and feet
• If you or someone with you is having these signs and symptoms, call 9–1–1 right away for emergency treatment. Prompt treatment can help prevent or limit lasting damage to the heart and other organs and can prevent sudden death.
• Blood pressure tests, EKG (electrocardiogram), chest x ray, echocardiography, coronary angiography, and blood tests are used to diagnose cardiogenic shock.
• Treatment for cardiogenic shock starts with emergency life support to keep the patient alive. Once doctors know that a person is in cardiogenic shock, they can use medicines, medical devices, and different types of surgery to treat the underlying causes of the shock.
• The best way to prevent cardiogenic shock is to do as much as you can to lower your risk for heart disease and prevent a heart attack. (See the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute's "Your Guide to a Healthy Heart.")