The progressive stage of shock is caused by a vicious cycle of cardiovascular deterioration through various positive feedback mechanisms. If left uncorrected, the shock will progress to the irreversible stage where death is imminent. Some key positive feedback mechanisms include cardiac depression reducing cardiac output and blood pressure, vasomotor failure reducing sympathetic tone, and the release of toxins from ischemic tissues further deteriorating the circulatory system. Prompt, aggressive intervention is needed to break this vicious cycle and prevent the shock from progressing to irreversible stages with multi-organ failure and cell death.