SHOCK

(See also Fainting  |  Coma.) "Shock" means a condition of collapse because of a loss of blood-vessel tone, because of insufficient volume of available blood, or because of some condition which prevents blood from entering the heart. Shock occurs after severe injury, massive loss of blood, severe dehydration, overwhelming infections, or drug toxicity. The signs of shock are extreme weakness, paleness, sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, restlessness, and mental confusion or apathy. The patient's pulse is thready, and the blood pressure is low. Shock constitutes a medical emergency.

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