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Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock is a condition caused when the blood flow in the body suddenly and severely decreases. Blood flow becomes so low that adequate blood is not able to return to the heart so that it can function normally.

When oxygen cannot be delivered to organs and tissue, symptoms that may develop include pale or bluish skin; weak but rapid pulse; shallow, fast breathing; extreme thirst; and possibly fainting (syncope).

Last Revised: April 26, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology & Stephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC - Interventional Cardiology

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