What is shock and what are some of its symptoms

Shock is one of the conditions that you will gain knowledge about when you attend Emergency First Aid Training Courses like the ones that are available from www.tidaltraining.co.uk. It is important that staff members are trained to look out for the symptoms of shock and learn how to manage them.

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Shock is essentially a medical condition that occurs when the body’s vital organs do not receive enough nutrients and oxygen to be able to carry out their functions properly. This is a serious condition that needs medical attention as soon as possible.

The symptoms of shock can vary and will depend on what the underlying cause is. The symptoms will also depend on the stage of shock that someone may be experiencing. Here are some of the symptoms:

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  • Pale and or clammy skin – an individual’s skin may appear pale and may feel cool and sweaty to the touch. This occurs as a result of the decrease in blood flow to the skin as the body directs this blood flow to the vital organs.
  • Rapid and shallow breathing – a person’s breathing can become shallow, rapid or irregular as the body tries to increase the amount of oxygen taken on that is needed to meet the oxygen demand.
  • Weakness and fatigue – the individual may feel weak and lethargic. This occurs as a result of the decrease in blood flow to the muscles and vital organs in the body.

Other symptoms can include a decrease in blood pressure, altered mental  state, thirst or a dry mouth, nausea or vomiting and a rapid or weak pulse.

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