What is shock?

Shock is a life-threatening medical condition where the body is not getting enough blood flow, so organs and tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients to work properly. It is an emergency that can worsen very quickly and needs immediate treatment.

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Quick Scoop

In simple terms, shock means the circulatory system is failing to deliver enough blood to the body’s vital organs. This can lead to organ damage and, if untreated, death.

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Common causes

• Major blood loss or severe bleeding.
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• Severe infection or sepsis.
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• Allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis.
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• Heart problems like a heart attack or abnormal rhythm.
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• Heatstroke, poisoning, severe burns, or major trauma.
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Common signs

• Very low blood pressure.
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• Weak, rapid pulse.
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• Fast, shallow breathing.
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• Pale, cold, or bluish skin.
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• Dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, or collapse.
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What to do

If someone may be in shock, call emergency services right away. Keep the person lying down, control any bleeding, keep them warm, and follow emergency instructions until help arrives. If they stop breathing normally, start CPR if you know how.

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TL;DR: Shock is a medical emergency caused by dangerously poor blood flow, often from bleeding, infection, allergy, or heart problems. It needs urgent treatment.

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