Hypovolemic Shock: Causes, Symptoms, and Emergency Treatment

Hypovolemic shock is a life-threatening condition from significant blood/fluid loss, causing inadequate tissue perfusion. Immediate intervention is critical.

Common Causes

• Hemorrhage: Trauma, surgery, GI bleeding, ruptured vessels.
• Dehydration: Severe vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, burns.
• Third-Spacing: Fluid shifts into interstitial space (burns, pancreatitis, obstruction).
• Plasma Loss: Protein malnutrition, kidney disease reducing oncotic pressure.

Signs & Symptoms

• Rapid, weak, irregular pulse
• Low blood pressure
• Pale, cool, clammy skin
• Dry mouth, cracked lips
• Confusion, lethargy, unconsciousness
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Decreased urine output

Emergency Treatment

1. IV Fluids: Rapid crystalloid infusion (saline, Ringer's lactate).
2. Blood Transfusion: For severe blood loss (restore O₂ capacity).
3. Oxygen Therapy: Improve tissue oxygenation.
4. Vasopressors/Inotropes: Support BP and cardiac function if fluids insufficient.
5. Source Control: Stop bleeding, treat underlying cause.

Early recognition and aggressive resuscitation improve survival and reduce complications.