(7) Anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is caused by an allergic
reaction to an insect sting, food, drugs, or other substance. In anaphylactic shock, the
casualty's skin may be flush, warm, itch, or break out. The face and tongue may swell
and the lips turn bluish (cyanosis). The casualty may have difficulty in breathing,
cough, or have pain in the chest. The blood pressure drops and pulse becomes weak,
which results in faintness or coma.
7-2.
IDENTIFY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF HYPOVOLEMIC SHOCK
Severe loss of blood is the primary cause of hypovolemic shock. Other
indications (signs and symptoms) of hypovolemic shock include:
a. Restlessness and anxiety.
b. Weak and rapid (thready) pulse.
c. Cool, clammy (sweaty) skin.
d. Profuse sweating (diaphoresis)
e. Pale skin color and/or blotchy or bluish skin around the mouth.
NOTE:
In casualties with dark skin, check the color of the mucous membranes on
the inside of the mouth.
f. Shallow, labored, rapid, or irregular breathing or gasping for breath.
g. Dull eyes with dilated pupils.
h. Excessive thirst.
i. Nausea or vomiting.
j. Gradual and steady drop in blood pressure.
k. Mental confusion.
l. Loss of consciousness.
MD0554
7-3