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# Shock | |
## What is shock? | |
Shock is a life-threatening condition that can result from severe | |
bleeding, dehydration, major wounds and burns, allergic reaction, or | |
infection in the blood (sepsis). This kind of shock is different | |
from 'shock' from a surprise or scare. The body starts to shut down, | |
losing the ability to perform its most basic functions. Once signs | |
of shock begin, it tends to get worse very fast. Treat shock quickly | |
to save the person's life. | |
Shock | |
Signs | |
* Fear or restlessness, then confusion, weakness, and loss of | |
consciousness | |
* Cold sweat: pale, cool, damp skin | |
* Weak, fast pulse | |
* Dropping blood pressure | |
Treatment | |
Get help. On the way: | |
* Treat the cause of the shock as quickly as you can: | |
* - For bleeding, use pressure. | |
* - For dehydration, the person will need fluids by IV if she | |
cannot sit up and swallow liquids. | |
* - If the cause of shock is sepsis (an infection that has spread | |
to the bloodstream), antibiotics are needed immediately. | |
* Keep the person warm (or remove some clothes if the person is | |
hot). | |
* Raise the legs, supporting the knees. | |
* Keep calm and reassure the person. | |
use pressure | |
antibiotics | |
Shock treatment | |
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