Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic Shock describes the sudden drop in blood pressure
and intense swelling of the vocal cords and upper airway associated
with severe allergic reactions. Anaphylactic shock may follow an
allergic reaction to insect stings, foods or medications. Although
anaphylaxis may be life threatening, we usually treat it successfully
with epinephrine injections, intravenous medications called corticosteroids
and antihistamines.
Cardiogenic Shock
Cardiogenic shock describes the syndrome of dangerously low blood
pressure and fluid accumulation in the lungs associated with malfunction
of the heart. We treat this syndrome with medications such as dobutamine,
natrecor and primacor to assist the heart in pumping more vigorously.
We also use a medication called lasix to help remove fluid from
the lungs.
Septic Shock
Septic Shock describes a syndrome of low blood pressure and decreased
blood flow to vital organs including the kidneys, brain and intestinal
tract. This syndrome most often results from overwhelming infection
in the blood, but can also occur in patients with severe pancreatitis
or emboli to the bowel. The treatment of this life threatening condition
requires intravenous fluid, antibiotics and careful monitoring.
In some cases we also use a new medication called xigress to slow
down the vicious cycle of worsening infection and decreased blood
flow to vital organs.
Respiratory Failure
 A
wide variety of Pulmonary Conditions can lead to a complete inability
to breathe. When patients can no longer breathe independently, physicians
use a machine called a mechanical ventilator, which breathes for
the patient through a plastic conduit placed in the windpipe (endotracheal
tube). The goal of Critical Care Physicians is to treat the underlying
ailment until the patient breathes independently. Once the patient
begins breathing independently, we gradually wean off the mechanical
ventilator.
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