What Is Hypovolemic Shock?
Hypovolemic shock, also called hemorrhagic shock, is a life-threatening condition that results when you lose more than 20 percent (one-fifth) of your body’s blood or fluid supply. This severe fluid loss makes it impossible for the heart to pump sufficient blood to your body. Hypovolemic shock can cause many of your organs to fail. The condition requires immediate emergency medical attention in order to survive.
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Part 2 of 8: Causes
What Causes Hypovolemic Shock?
Hypovolemic shock results from significant blood and/or fluid losses in your body. Blood loss of this magnitude can occur because of:
bleeding from cuts or wounds
bleeding from blunt traumatic injuries due to accidents or seizure activity
internal bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract or ruptured ectopic pregnancy
In addition to actual blood loss, the loss of body fluids can cause a decrease in blood volume. This can occur in cases of:
excessive diarrhea
severe burns
protracted and excessive vomiting
excessive sweating