Cardiogenic Shock Recovery

Cardiogenic shock is a rare disorder that occurs when the heart is no longer able to pump blood throughout the body. This condition occurs suddenly, and usually on the heels of a major heart attack. If left untreated, cardiogenic shock can be fatal.

There are several symptoms associated with the disorder and include, but are not limited to, the following:

- Sweating - Confusion
- Erratic heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Faint pulse
- Cold hands and/or feet
- Decrease in output of urine

Since cardiogenic shock usually follows a heart attack, it is wise to know the symptoms associated with same. Most of the symptoms of cardiogenic shock are common to heart attack with few differences. These include:

- Persistent abdominal pain
- Chest pains
- Syncope - Pain that radiates from chest to shoulder, back, arm and jaw
- Feeling of pressure in chest area
- Nausea and/or vomiting

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Certain factors put people at higher risk of developing this disorder. These risk factors include:

- Age: Men and women over the age of 65 are more prone to developing and/or succumbing to cardiogenic shock.
- Prior History: Experiencing one or more heart attacks will put a person at higher risk for the onset of cardiogenic shock.
- Cardiac Condition: Untreated blockages may also put a person at risk of developing cardiogenic shock.

Cardiogenic shock recovery is possible; however, it is vital that the person receive immediate medical attention. Oxygen may be administered during an episode of cardiogenic shock. Several medications such as aspirin may also be given to the patient in an effort to reduce clotting. Other clot-reducing drugs that may be beneficial during such an episode may include thrombolytics and certain other blood thinners. Furthermore, these medications may actually become part of the patient's daily regimen as he or she recovers from cardiogenic shock.

In order to improve the flow of blood throughout the body, it may be necessary to undergo certain medical procedures. Among them include inserting a stent to widen a blocked artery to improve blood flow. Surgical intervention may be considered as a last resort in the form of bypass surgery, repair of the heart, or a transplant of the damaged heart.