Shock

       Shock is what happens when the heart and blood vessels are unable to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the vital organs of the body. Although every illness and involves shock to some degree, it can be a life threatening problem. The best way to protect people from the serious damages that shock can have on the system is to recognize the signs before the person gets into serious trouble. In most cases, only a few of the symptoms will be present, and many do not appear for some time. The most common symptoms are:

• Pale, cold, clammy and moist skin
• Vacant or dull eyes, dilated pupils
• Anxiety, restlessness, and fainting
• Weak, rapid, or absent pulse
• Shallow, rapid, and irregular breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive thirst
• Person may seem confused or tired
• Loss of blood pressure

Classification of shock:

Hypovolemic Shock:  This form of shock is brought on by a decrease in the amount of blood vessels or other fluids in the body. Excessive bleeding from internal and external injuries, fluid loss due to diarrhea, burns, dehydration, and severe vomiting usually cause this kind of shock.

Neurogenic Shock:  In the case of neurogenic shock, the blood vessels become abnormally enlarged and the pooling of the blood disallows an adequate blood flow to be maintained. Fainting is an example of this sort of shock, as the blood temporarily pools as the person stands. When the person falls the blood rushes back to the head and the problem is solved.

Psychogenic Shock: This shock is more common, and is known as a “shock like condition”. It is produced by excessive fear, joy, anger, or grief. “Shell shock” is a psychological adjustment reaction to stressful wartime experiences. Treatment for shell shock is limited to emotional support and help from a medical facility.

Anaphylactic Shock: This form of shock is brought on by an allergic reaction from a food, bee sting or other insect bite, and inhalants. For more information on the care and treatment click the link below. Anaphylactic Shock

Treatment of shock:

1.      Call 911 (or your local emergency help provider) for help

2.      Lay the victim face up, on a blanket or coat if possible, and raise the feet above the head unless they are fractured. If the person is bleeding from the mouth or vomiting, tilt their head to the side to avoid fluids going into the lungs and airways. If you are unsure of injuries keep the person laying flat.

3.      Loosen tight clothing, braces, belts, jewelry etc to avoid constriction of the waist, neck and chest.

4.      Keep the victim comfortable and warm enough to be able to maintain their own body heat. If possible, remove wet clothing and place blankets beneath the victim.  NEVER use artificial sources of heat. If they are bleeding severely do not apply heat to the wounded area as it will prevent the blood from clotting as easily

5.      Check for other injuries, such as bleeding and burns and treat the other injuries according to first aid procedures. If possible try to splint sprains or broken bones. If you are unsure of how to do this, leave them as they are to avoid further damage.

6.      If they claim they are thirsty moisten their lips with water but DO NOT give them anything to drink, as it may induce vomiting.

7.      Try to keep the victim calm, excitement and excessive handling will worsen their condition try to assure them help is on the way.

       Remember, if you can perform these actions before shock has completely developed you may prevent its occurrence and if it had developed you may stop it from becoming fatal. If shock is left unattended to the victim will die, it is extremely important that first aid be performed as soon as possible.