Physiological Shock Symptoms

Victims of a traumatic workplace accident can experience physiological shock when their heart rate increases so rapidly that blood and oxygen supplies in the body are severely diminished. Rapid loss of blood and other body fluids, damage to the nervous system, and the physiological trauma of an accident can quickly lead to organ failure, respiratory distress, and death. Victims of physiological shock may be entitled to compensation and Workers’ Compensation benefits.

Types of Physiological Shock

There are five different types of physiological shock that the human body can experience following a traumatic event.

• Hypovolemic shock: This happens when there is a rapid loss of blood. The heart rate increases so quickly that the respiratory system becomes inefficient. When this happens, the body’s organs begin to shut down to compensate, which can result in permanent and life-threatening injuries to the body.

• Cardiogenic shock: This occurs when the heart is damaged and cannot supply the body’s organ system with enough blood and oxygen. The victim can experience fatal complications in a short period of time. Heart attacks and electrocution are the two main causes of cardiogenic shock.

• Neurogenic shock: This happens when there is trauma to the spinal cord or nervous system. Blood circulation can be severely affected, which can lead to organ failure and death. The symptoms of this type of shock are not always easy to recognize.

• Septic shock: This can occur in the days, weeks, or months following a workplace accident. If the victim gets an infection from an open wound or surgical procedure, the infection can enter the bloodstream and shut down the body’s organ system. Septic shock can result in loss of limbs, blindness, and death.

• Anaphylactic shock: This is a result of a severe allergic reaction that causes airways to swell and cuts off oxygen supply to the body. Victims can experience anaphylactic shock from exposure to allergens in the workplace or from medications given to treat injuries related to a workplace accident.

Symptoms of Physiological Shock

Any type of shock response that occurs following a traumatic accident or event requires immediate medical attention, even when the symptoms appear days, weeks, or months after the incident. The symptoms of physiological shock include:

• Cool, clammy skin

• Pale or ashen colored skin

• Rapid or erratic pulse

• Difficulty breathing or rapid, shallow breath

• Nausea and vomiting

• Dilated pupils

• Fatigue and weakness

• Dizziness

• Fainting

• Agitation or restlessness

• Change in mental status

Victims should seek medical attention immediately. Once stabilized, it is important to seek counsel from an experienced and qualified Workers’ Compensation lawyer as soon as possible. Compensation may be available to victims of physiological shock.

Piscataway Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Advocate for Victims of Physiological Shock

If you have been a victim of physiological shock, call the Piscataway Workers’ Compensation lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr at 732-537-8570 or contact us online to set up a free consultation today. Our Highland Park, New Jersey offices serve clients in New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.