2-22. Causes and Effects

Table of Contents

• a. There are three basic mechanisms associated with shock. These are —
• • • The heart is damaged and fails to work as a pump.
  • • Blood loss (heavy bleeding) causes the volume of fluid within the vascular system to be insufficient.
  • • The blood vessels dilate (open wider) so that the blood within the system (even though it is a normal volume [the casualty is not bleeding or dehydrated]) is insufficient to provide adequate circulation within the body.
• b. Shock may be the result of a number of conditions. These include —
• • • Dehydration.
  • • Allergic reaction to foods, drugs, insect stings, and snakebites.
  • • Significant loss of blood.
  • • Reaction to the sight of a wound, blood, or other traumatic scene.
  • • Traumatic injuries, such as —
  • • • Burns.
    • • Gunshot or shrapnel wounds.
    • • Crush injuries.
    • • Blows to the body (which can cause broken bones or damage to internal organs).
    • • Head injuries.
    • • Penetrating wounds (such as from a knife, bayonet, or missile).