Shock - Causes - Better Medicine

What causes shock?

Shock develops as a result of diminished flow of blood to the body’s vital organs. The most common type of shock is referred to as hypovolemic, or low-volume, shock, a direct result of diminished blood flow. Traumatic injury can often result in shock when internal or external bleeding decreases the amount of blood in the body. The body responds to low blood volume by increasing the heart rate to deliver oxygen to the tissues. Unless this response is identified quickly and reversed through medical intervention, shock may result as the body reduces blood flow to the periphery in order to protect vital organs.

Shock may also be caused by severe dehydration, heart failure or heart attack (cardiogenic shock), spinal cord injury (neurogenic shock), and infection (septic shock).

What are the risk factors for shock?

Although the risk of shock is increased by certain factors, you may be affected by one or more of these factors without developing shock. Risk factors for shock include:

Heart disease
Injuries and trauma
Internal or external bleeding
Serious infection
Severe dehydration

INTRODUCTION

What is shock?

Shock is a condition that affects the body’s major organs and occurs when the body does not receive an adequate flow of blood. There are multiple causes for shock, including heart disorders, severe dehydration, trauma, and infection. Shock is commonly caused by serious trauma that includes internal or external bleeding.... Read more about shock introduction

SYMPTOMS

What are the symptoms of shock?

There are many symptoms of shock, and they may appear in any combination.... Read more about shock symptoms

TREATMENTS

How is shock treated?

Shock is a potentially life-threatening condition that should be evaluated in an emergency department. If you believe that you, or someone you are with, may be in or approaching shock, it is critical to seek immediate medical care by calling 911.... Read more about shock treatments