2. SHOCK
Shock is a life-threatening medical condition and is a medical emergency.
If shock is suspected call 1122 or get to an emergency department immediately.
Symptoms:
The main symptom of shock is low blood pressure.
Other symptoms include:
Rapid or shallow breathing
Cold or clammy skin
Rapid or weak pulse
Dizziness
Fainting
Weakness
Chest pain
Seizures
Types:
There are several types of shock:
Septic shock caused by bacteria
Anaphylactic shock caused by hypersensitivity or allergic reaction
Cardiogenic shock caused from heart damage
Hypovolemic shock caused from blood or fluid loss
Neurogenic shock caused from spinal cord trauma
Hypoglycemic shock caused from imbalance of the insulin
Treatment:
Treatment for shock depends on the cause. Tests will determine the cause and severity.
Usually IV fluids are administered in addition to medications that raise blood pressure.
Septic shock is treated with antibiotics and fluids.
Anaphylactic shock is treated with diphenhydramine (Benadryl), epinephrine (an
"Epi-pen"), and steroid medications (solu-medrol).
Cardiogenic shock is treated by identifying and treating the underlying cause.
Hypovolemic shock is treated with fluids (saline) in minor cases, and blood
transfusions in severe cases.
Neurogenic shock is the most difficult to treat as spinal cord damage is often
irreversible. Immobilization, anti-inflammatories such as steroids and surgery are the
main treatments.
3. Hypoglycemic shock is treated by giving an injection of glucagon if the person is
unconscious, if you have it. If you don’t have glucagon, emergency personnel will
have some.
Prevention:
Shock prevention includes learning ways to prevent heart disease, injuries, dehydration and
other causes of shock.
References:
a. https://www.medicinenet.com/shock/article.htm#shock_facts
b. https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/insulin-shock#3