Shock

A general term used to describe a set of symptoms associated with failure of the circulatory system. Shock may result from many severe disturbances including trauma, hemorrhage, septicemia, myocardial infarction, severe diarrhea, severe burns, overwhelming allergic reactions such as may occur following bee and wasp stings. Indications of shock include weakness, pallor, cold and sweaty skin, weak and fast pulse, low blood pressure, rapid, shallow and irregular breathing, thirst and sometimes unconsciousness. Anyone with a severe injury or burn may suffer delayed shock so should be closely watched for some hours after the injury. People showing signs of shock should be kept still and warm while waiting for medical attention.