First aid for hypovolemic shock
Hypovolemic shock is a dangerous condition that occurs as a result of a decrease in the volume of blood circulating in the body.
Causes of hypovolemic shock:
- blood loss
- burn disease;
- severe allergic reactions;
- gestosis
- polyuria;
- endocrine disorders;
- uncontrolled intake of certain medications;
- massive fluid loss (vomiting, diarrhea).
In the development of hypovolemic shock, there are three phases: deficiency of BCC (circulating blood volume), stimulation of the sympathoadrenal system, and shock.
Causes of hypovolemic shock
Burns. Hypovolemia is caused by plasma loss in large burns, aggravated by intoxication with tissue breakdown products.
Diseases of the kidneys. The causes of hypovolemic shock can be excessive excretion of water and sodium, as well as the presence of glucose in the urine, which “pulls” a significant amount of fluid.
Intestinal water excretion. We are talking about infections accompanied by profuse diarrhea. Emergency care for hypovolemic shock will be discussed below.
Blood loss is the most common cause when blood is released into the lumen of a tissue (organ) or into the external environment.
Degrees of hypovolemic shock:
- first (mild) - loss of up to 15% of BCC (pressure and respiration are normal, pale skin, anxiety are possible);
- second (moderate) - loss of CBF from 30 to 40% (blood pressure drops below 100 mm Hg, rapid pulse, pale skin, increased sweating, severe anxiety);
- third (severe) - loss of more than 40% (weak and rapid pulse, blood pressure below 70 mm Hg, pale, sweaty skin, incoherent speech, loss of consciousness).
Detailed information on the treatment of hypovolemic shock is available on the pages of our website Dobrobut.com. Use the special form and make an appointment with the right specialist. The clinic has the opportunity for a complete examination of the body and a course of rehabilitation after serious illnesses.
Signs of hypovolemic shock
Explicit symptoms of this condition develop with a loss of 10-20% of BCC. Early signs of hypovolemic shock include:
- thirst
- anxiety, irritability;
- pale skin covered with sticky sweat;
- decreased blood pressure, rapid breathing;
- confusion (not always).
In the absence of adequate medical care, the patient's condition worsens, and late signs develop: a sharp drop in blood pressure, severe tachycardia, fever, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.
Hypovolemic shock is usually treated by an intensivist in collaboration with narrow specialists. Therapy is aimed at eliminating respiratory and circulatory hypoxia and ensuring adequate blood supply to the organs.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is made after examination of the patient. Mandatory tests are: complete blood count and urine test. The list of additional examinations depends on the pathology that caused this condition. CT or MRI, radiography, endoscopic examinations may be prescribed.
Treatment of hypovolemic shock
Hypovolemia requires immediate treatment. The patient is usually hospitalized in the intensive care unit, where complex therapy will be carried out to restore the volume of circulating blood, normalize blood circulation to vital organs (brain, heart, lungs, kidneys) and restore acid-base balance. For this purpose, infusion therapy, blood replacement drugs, glucocorticosteroids, and sedatives are prescribed. In parallel, oxygen inhalation is performed, and if necessary, the patient is transferred to a ventilator.
Emergency care for hypovolemic shock until the ambulance arrives:
- In an unconscious state, the victim should be laid on his/her back and his/her head should be turned to the side (in the absence of damage to the cervical spine)
- raise the legs by 30 cm;
- cover with a blanket (to avoid hypothermia).
Clinical recommendations for the provision of pre-hospital care for hypovolemic shock in children are identical.
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