What is shock?

Shock is a life-threatening condition in which blood flow to the organs is low, decreasing delivery of oxygen and thus causing organ damage and sometimes death. Blood pressure is usually low.

Initial symptoms of shock may include weakness, fast heart rate, fast breathing, sweating, anxiety, and increased thirst. This may be followed by confusion, unconsciousness, or cardiac arrest, as complications worsen.

There are many types of shock. They fall under four main categories, based on what has affected the flow of blood. The four major types are:

• obstructive shock

• cardiogenic shock

• distributive shock

• hypovolemic shock

All forms of shock are life-threatening.