Common Causes Of Hypovolemic Shock
Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Signs of onset shock include a rapid heart rate (tachycardia), cool skin, and extremely low blood pressure. It occurs when there is a significant reduction, usually twenty percent or more, in the amount of blood within the circulatory system. Although the body has many mechanisms to cope with a drop in blood volume, there is a point where the cardiovascular and nervous systems cannot compensate enough to maintain blood pressure. If normal blood pressure is not restored quickly, vital organs such as the brain, kidneys, and liver will fail from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. Hypovolemic shock (hypo = low and volemic = volume) is one of several types of shock caused by a disruption in the regular function of the cardiovascular system. The onset of hypovolemic shock may be gradual or rapid depending upon the cause and the patient's health status and physical size, as well as how quickly they receive medical treatment. Being aware of conditions that can lead to hypovolemic shock is the first step in saving a life.