When someone is “In Shock” what does that mean and why does this happen?
In: Biology
Shock is inadequate perfusion of oxygen to the body’s cells, and is a life threatening condition. It is characterized by:
elevated heart rate
elevated breathing rate
low blood pressure
pale, cool skin
diaphoresis (sweating)
dilated pupils
There are many types and causes of shock, including hypovolemic shock (loss of blood), cardiogenic shock (heart problems), neurogenic shock (brain and spinal cord problems), obstructive shock (cardiopulmonary blood flow problem), aniphylactic shock (allergic reactions), psychogenic shock (psychological cause), septic shock (infections), etc.
All of these causes involve different mechanisms, but all have the same thing in common, which is to impair proper delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Treatment involves maintaining a clear airway, making sure that the patient is breathing or adequately ventilated with supplemental oxygen, maintaining circulation (with CPR or fluid therapy as appropriate), preventing hypothermia / keeping the patient warm, and then treating the underlying condition.
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