Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the heart suddenly cant pump enough blood to meet the bodys needs, creating an oxygen-deficient state. It is most often caused by a severe heart attack that damages the hearts main pumping chamber (left ventricle) . Other possible causes include inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) and heart failure. Symptoms of cardiogenic shock include rapid breathing, severe shortness of breath, sudden, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), loss of consciousness, weak pulse, low blood pressure (hypotension), sweating, pale skin, cold hands or feet, and less than normal urination or none at all. Cardiogenic shock is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment in a hospital. The goal of treatment is to quickly restore blood pressure and heart function, which often requires a series of immediate treatments given in an ambulance or the emergency room. Emergency and short-term treatments may include medications or temporary support devices to restore blood flow, as well as longer-term therapies to address the underlying condition that caused the heart to stop pumping enough blood.