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How to Treat Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock is a very serious situation requiring immediate, professional medical help. In this situation, a diseased heart (such as that of a person suffering from heart disease) is so damaged that it is unable to provide enough blood to the body's organs, causing the sufferer's systems to be unable to work properly. People who show signs of heart disease should know what to look for in cardiogenic shock so they can seek medical attention right away.

Instructions

    • 1

      Diagnose the condition correctly. Disorders of the heart that are commonly associated with cardiogenic shock include cardiomyopathy, rupture of the heart, heart attack, heart failure and heart valve or rhythm disorders. Rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, cool skin, weak pulse and pale skin color are some of the symptoms of this condition.

    • 2

      Seek immediate medical attention when symptoms are evident. The only treatment for cardiogenic shock requires hospitalization. Treatment will start with diagnostic testing to determine the underlying cause, and doctors will stabilize the current state of the heart to prolong life.

    • 3

      Medicate an individual with the most appropriate drugs for the underlying condition and its symptoms. Those drugs may include dopamine, epinephrine, amrinone, norephinephrine, and dobutamine. Medications will improve blood pressure and will enable the heart to function properly.

    • 4

      Treat cardiogenic shock with strict bed rest until doctors allow more activity. This reduces the workload of the heart, enabling it to do its job better. Oxygen will be given to reduce the stress on the heart, and fluids will be used as needed to maintain the body.

    • 5

      Consider surgery. Inserting a cardiac pacing device, or pacemaker, may regulate the heart's beating abilities. Heart monitors will give doctors more information, and other treatments can repair damage to the heart in some situations. A heart transplant may be necessary for some patients.

    • 6

      Monitor for complications from cardiogenic shock. Complications such as kidney damage and failure, brain damage, and liver damage and failure are common. Doctors will work to maintain all body functions throughout treatment.

Tips & Warnings

  • Anyone experiencing any of the symptoms of this heart condition should seek professional medical advice.

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