Shock (severe low blood pressure)

About Shock (severe low blood pressure)

Blood pressure too low to support vital functions. Shock can occur from the following conditions: bleeding, dehydration, heart failure, overwhelming infection (sepsis), severe trauma, severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), or spinal trauma.

Symptoms

Anxiety, agitation, confusion, cool clammy skin, low or no urine output, bluish lips and fingernails, dizziness, light-headedness, profuse sweating, moist skin, rapid weak pulse, shallow breathing, coma.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests will be done to determine the cause of the shock.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Troponin, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Therapy is aimed at reversing the cause of the shock, and elevating the blood pressure. The following are used to raise the blood pressure: intravenous fluids, pressors (dopamine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine), and/or blood transfusions.

Medical specialties

Critical Care Medicine

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Shock (severe low blood pressure).