Shock may quickly occur after a sudden illness or injury. When
the body loses too much blood or fluid, there is no longer enough fluid in the
body to carry enough blood to the vital organs.
A child may be in
shock if one or more of the following signs are present:
- Passing out (losing
consciousness)
- Acting confused. The child may not know where he or
she is.
- Being very sleepy or hard to wake up
- Breathing
fast
- Not responding to being touched or talked to
Also, a child in shock has a weak, rapid heart rate and low
blood pressure.
Shock is a life-threatening condition. Immediate
medical care is required any time shock is suspected.