What is shock?
A person with shock has an life-threatening condition that prevents the heart and bloodstream from delivering enough oxygen to keep up with the demand of the body. Prolonged shock results in the death of cells that do not receive enough oxygen. Shock may be caused by heart failure, poor blood flow to the lungs, severe blood loss, or dilation of the blood vessels throughout the body.

What are the symptoms of shock?
Symptoms of shock include low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, pale skin, excessive sweating, excessive sleepiness, fainting, cool limbs, confusion, and coma.

How does the doctor treat shock?
The treatment for shock depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for shock may include, intravenous fluids, cardiac monitoring, oxygen therapy, corticosteroid medications, antibiotics, medications for low blood pressure, surgery, blood transfusions, or a ventilator to support breathing.