Shock in adults and older children

Shock is a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical care can make the difference between life and death.

Early signs of shock (most of which will be present) include:

• Lightheadedness or a feeling that you are about to pass out.
• Restlessness, confusion, or signs of fear.
• Shallow, rapid breathing.
• Moist, cool skin or possibly profuse sweating.
• Weakness.
• Thirst, nausea, or vomiting.

Also, a person in shock usually has an abnormal increase in heart rate and an abnormal decrease in blood pressure.

Late signs of shock include:

• Changes in the person's level of consciousness, such as sudden unresponsiveness, faintness, loss of consciousness, or behavior changes.
• A pale face or blue lips or earlobes.

Shock may occur in response to a sudden illness or injury. When the body loses too much blood or fluids, the circulatory system cannot get enough blood to the vital organs, and shock results.

Shock is a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical care is required any time shock is suspected.

• Call 911 or other emergency services.
• Have the person lie down. If there is an injury to the head, neck, or chest, keep the legs flat. Otherwise, raise the person's legs at least 12 in..
• If the person vomits, roll him or her to one side to let fluids drain from the mouth. Use care if there could be an injury to the back or neck.
• Stop any bleeding, and splint any broken bones.
• Keep the person warm but not hot. Put a blanket under the person, and cover him or her with a sheet or blanket, depending on the weather. If the person is in a hot place, try to keep him or her cool.
• Take the person's pulse in case medical staff on the phone need to know what the pulse is. Take it again if the person's condition changes.
• Try to keep the person calm.