Shock in children

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.

Babies and young children usually have several symptoms of shock, including:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Being very sleepy or hard to wake up.
• Not responding to being touched or talked to.
• Breathing much faster than usual.
• Acting confused. The child may not know where they are.

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.