Signs and symptoms of shock

It’s important not to confuse the two different forms of shock. One is psychological (emotional). The other is physiological (circulatory).

Physiological shock is a life-threatening condition that happens when the body isn’t getting enough blood flow to the cells of vital organs and they lose oxygen.

The main causes of shock

Severe blood loss (hypovolemic shock)
Heart-related emergencies such as heart attacks and cardiac arrest (cardiogenic shock)
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock)
Shock can also occur after severe burns, severe vomiting, or bacterial infection

How to recognise and manage an infant or child who is in shock

Common signs and symptoms:

Pale, cold, clammy skin
Rapid, weak pulse
Fast, shallow breathing
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness
Sweating
Blue lips
Feeling faint

How to support a baby or child who is suffering from anaphylactic shock

Anaphylaxis is when a person suffers from an extreme allergic reaction. In anaphylaxis, a chemical in the body called histamine is overproduced. This can cause problems with circulation, the person’s airway, and the person’s ability to breathe.

What can trigger an anaphylactic reaction?

Anaphylaxis is triggered when a person is exposed to a substance they are allergic to.

What are the most common triggers?

Foods: seafood, nuts, eggs, milk, and bananas

Insect stings: usually bee and wasp stings

Medications: antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs

Signs and symptoms of an anaphylactic shock

Swollen eyes, lips, hands, and feet
Swollen mouth, tongue, or throat, causing difficulty swallowing, breathing, or talking
Itchy, blotchy skin rash
Wheezy breathing that sounds similar to asthma
Stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting
Dizziness or feeling faint, showing signs of shock.

How to treat and manage an infant or child who is suffering from anaphylactic shock

Call 999 immediately.
Any child or baby in this state should be placed in a comfortable position. (See Q and A’s for the factors that should be considered.)
The person may have an adrenaline auto-injector pen. If so, they may be able to administer it themselves. If they cannot administer it, you may need to assist them.
If the person falls unconscious, maintain their airway and breathing. If needed, resuscitate them (link to the relevant page).
The adrenaline can be administered every 5 to 15 minutes if no sign of improvement is shown.

Useful questions and answers

What are adrenaline auto-injectors?

An auto-injector is a pen-sized, easy-to-use cartridge of adrenaline that can be injected into a person through a needle. The adrenaline gets into the bloodstream and disrupts the buildup of histamine in the affected area.

How do I use an auto-injector?

There are different types of auto-injectors, but each will come with a step-by-step guide on the packaging. The preferred site for the injection is the outside of the upper thigh. Inject and hold in place for up to 10 seconds. It can be administered through clothing. Once delivered, massage the area for 10 minutes to increase absorption.

What factors should I consider when placing a child in a comfortable position?

Children with airway and breathing problems may prefer to sit up, as this will make breathing easier.

Lying flat with or without leg elevation is helpful for children with low blood pressure (circulation problems). If the child feels faint, do not sit or stand them up.

Children who are breathing and unconscious should be placed on their side (recovery position).

Supporting a Baby or Child in Shock or Anaphylactic Shock

The signs and symptoms of shock and how to recognise and manage a baby or child who is in shock.