Signs and Symptoms of Decreased Cardiac Output

Change in mental status: Indicates possible decreased cerebral perfusion, affecting cognition.
Light-headedness: A sensation that may suggest insufficient blood flow to the brain.
Dizziness: Often occurs due to inadequate oxygen delivery or low blood pressure.
Confusion: Can be a sign of impaired brain function due to reduced cardiac output.
Loss of consciousness: Severe implication of decreased cardiac output, requiring immediate attention.

Chest pain: May indicate myocardial ischemia or angina, necessitating evaluation.
Palpitations: Awareness of irregular or rapid heartbeats, possibly resulting from decreased perfusion.
Chest discomfort: Often associated with cardiac distress or failure.
Enlarged cardiac size: Can signal heart congestion or cardiomyopathy, affecting output.
Congestive heart failure: A condition where the heart is unable to pump effectively, leading to various systemic symptoms.

Difficulty breathing: A common sign of inadequate oxygenation, may accompany cardiac issues.
Shortness of breath: Reflects compromised respiratory function, often exacerbated by heart conditions.
Frothy sputum: Indicates pulmonary edema from heart failure, where fluid escapes into the lungs.
Fluid present in lungs: Sign of pulmonary congestion, often due to heart failure.
Lung congestion: Impairs gas exchange and can worsen with decreased cardiac output.

Decreased urinary output, less than 30mL in 1 hour: A marker of renal perfusion and overall hydration status.

Hypotension: Low blood pressure indicating reduced perfusion pressure throughout the body.
Pale skin: Sign of impaired circulation, suggesting decreased oxygen delivery to tissues.
Skin cool and clammy to the touch: Associated with shock or significant cardiovascular instability.