Cardiogenic Shock
What are the treatments for the condition?
The goal of medical therapy is to improve your heart's ability to pump.
How your doctor treats you will depend on the underlying cause of the shock. Many different medicines
and devices may be used to try to restore heart function and blood flow. Some of these
include:
adding or removing fluids, such as blood, water, or salt
heart assist devices, such as a pacemaker
heart medicines to help the heart pump more effectively, such as digitalis
medicines to dissolve blood clots
medicines to help open up, or dilate, certain blood vessels
oxygen therapy
surgery
a ventilator, or artificial breathing machine
What are the side effects of the treatments?
All medicines have possible side effects. Ventilators increase the risk of
infection. Surgery can be associated with bleeding, infection, and in some cases,
death.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
If you survive, aggressive treatment and close monitoring of the
underlying disease is needed. In some people, a
heart transplant
may have to be done to fix the underlying problem. Your doctor will also test you for any permanent organ damage.
How is the condition monitored?
Results of blood tests and urine output are strictly monitored. Progress in the
treatment of the underlying disease is also carefully monitored. X-rays and other tests
may be required in some cases. Always report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.
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