Hypovolemic shock
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Hypovolemic Shock: Symptoms and Treatment
Overview of Hypovolemic Shock
Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition resulting from rapid and significant loss of blood or bodily fluids, often occurring after severe bleeding.
Signs and Symptoms of Hypovolemic Shock
- Cold and clammy skin: Skin feels cool and moist due to reduced blood flow and compensatory mechanisms.
- Pale or bluish skin (cyanosis): Reduced oxygen delivery to tissues results in a pale or blue tint, especially noticeable in the lips and fingertips.
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia): Heart beats faster to compensate for reduced blood volume and oxygen delivery.
- Shallow or rapid breathing (tachypnea): Increased respiratory rate as the body tries to obtain more oxygen.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension): Decreased pressure in the arteries due to blood volume loss.
- Weak or absent pulse: Reduced blood flow, particularly in the extremities, may cause a weak or absent pulse.
- Reduced urinary output: Kidneys receive less blood, leading to decreased urine production.
- Thirst or dry mouth: Body's response to fluid loss.
- Confusion or altered mental status: Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause dizziness, disorientation, or unconsciousness.
- Narrowing pulse pressure: Difference between systolic and diastolic blood pressure may decrease.
- Cold extremities: Hands and feet may feel cold due to reduced peripheral blood flow.
- Chest pain: Reduced blood flow to the heart can lead to chest pain.
- Anxiety and agitation: Body's stress response and decreased oxygen to the brain.
- Nausea and vomiting: Result of reduced blood flow to the stomach and intestines.
- Fatigue or weakness: Overall muscle fatigue due to reduced oxygen delivery.
Immediate Response and Treatment
If hypovolemic shock is suspected, immediate medical attention is crucial.
In a first-aid scenario, initial actions include:
- Stopping the bleed (if present)
- Elevating the legs 15 to 30 centimetres to move blood to vital organs
- Keeping the patient warm and calm
The primary treatment focus in medical settings is to stabilise the patient and replenish lost fluids or blood.