Causes of hypovolemic shock
Hypovolemic shock results from significant and sudden blood or fluid losses within your body. Blood loss of this magnitude can occur because of:
• bleeding from serious cuts or wounds
• bleeding from blunt traumatic injuries due to accidents
• internal bleeding...
Fundamentals of Nursing Practice (Kenyatta University)
Hypovolemic Shock
Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition that results when you lose
more than 20 percent (one-fifth) of your body’s blood or fluid supply. This
severe fluid loss makes it impossible for the heart to pump a sufficient amount
of blood to your body. Hypovolemic shock can lead to organ failure. This
condition requires immediate emergency medical attention.
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Hypovolemic shock is the most common type of shock, with very young
children and older adults being the most susceptible.
Causes of hypovolemic shock
Hypovolemic shock results from significant and sudden blood or fluid losses
within your body. Blood loss of this magnitude can occur because of:
• bleeding from serious cuts or wounds
• bleeding from blunt traumatic injuries due to accidents
• internal bleeding from abdominal organs or ruptured ectopic pregnancy
• bleeding from the digestive tract
• significant vaginal bleeding
• Endometriosis
In addition to actual blood loss, the loss of body fluids can cause a decrease
in blood volume. This can occur in cases of:
• excessive or prolonged diarrhea
• severe burns
• protracted and excessive vomiting
• excessive sweating
Blood carries oxygen and other essential substances to your organs and
tissues. When heavy bleeding occurs, there is not enough blood in circulation
for the heart to be an effective pump. Once your body loses these substances
faster than it can replace them, organs in your body begin to shut down and
the symptoms of shock occur. Blood pressure plummets, which can be
lifethreatening.
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What are the symptoms of
hypovolemic shock?
The symptoms of hypovolemic shock vary with the severity of the fluid or
blood loss. However, all symptoms of shock are life-threatening and need
emergency medical treatment. Internal bleeding symptoms may be hard to
recognize until the symptoms of shock appear, but external bleeding will be
visible. Symptoms of hemorrhagic shock may not appear immediately. Older
adults may not experience these symptoms until the shock progresses
significantly.
Severe symptoms, which must be taken seriously and warrant emergency
medical attention, include:
• cold or clammy skin
• pale skin
• rapid, shallow breathing
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