Shock is caused by any condition that dangerously reduces blood flow, including heart problems (such as heart attack or heart failure), low blood volume (as with heavy bleeding or dehydration), or changes in blood vessels (as with severe allergic reactions or infection).

Major classes of shock include: cardiogenic shock (associated with heart problems), hypovolemic shock (caused by inadequate blood volume), anaphylactic shock (caused by allergic reaction), septic shock (associated with infections), and neurogenic shock (caused by damage to the nervous system).

Shock is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment. Some degree of shock can accompany any medical emergency. Shock can get worse very rapidly. Be prepared to begin rescue breathing or CPR as needed.

• Bleeding (hypovolemic shock)
• Dehydration (hypovolemic shock)
• Heart attack (cardiogenic shock)
• Heart failure (cardiogenic shock)
• Trauma or serious injury
• Infections (septic shock)
• Allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock)
• Spinal injuries (neurogenic shock)
• Toxic shock syndrome

Depending on the specific cause and type of shock, symptoms may include:

• Anxiety or agitation
• Bluish lips and fingernails
• Chest pain
• Confusion
• Cool, clammy skin
• Decreased or no urine output
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Faintness
• Low blood pressure
• Paleness (pallor)
• Profuse sweating, moist skin
• Rapid pulse
• Shallow breathing
• Unconsciousness
• Weakness

1. Check the victim's airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.

2. If the victim is conscious and does not have a head, leg, neck, or spinal injury, place the victim in the shock position by laying the victim on the back and elevating the lower extremities about 12 inches. Do not elevate the head. However, if the victim has sustained an injury in which raising the legs will cause pain, leave the victim flat.

3. If the victim has sustained a possible spinal injury, keep the victim in the position in which he or she was found. Do not place the victim in the shock position.

4. Give appropriate first aid for any wounds, injuries, or illnesses.

5. Keep the person warm and comfortable. Loosen tight clothing. Don't give the victim anything to drink or eat.

6. If the victim vomits or is drooling, turn the head to one side so vomitus can drain (as long as there is no suspicion of spinal injury). If spinal injury is suspected and the victim vomits, "log roll" him or her by supporting the neck and spine to keep head position neutral with body position while turning the victim onto his or her side.

7. Call for immediate medical assistance and continue to monitor the victim's vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure) until help arrives.

• DO NOT give the victim anything by mouth.
• DO NOT move the victim if a spinal injury is suspected.
• DO NOT wait for milder shock symptoms to worsen before calling for emergency medical assistance.

• You suspect a person is in shock. Try to determine the cause of shock. Check for a medical alert tag. Shock requires immediate treatment to prevent damage to vital organs and tissues.

Preventing shock is easier than trying to treat it once it happens. Prompt treatment of the underlying cause will reduce the risk of developing severe shock. Early first aid can help control shock.