Vasodilatory shock

Vasodilatory shock
Synonyms	Distributive shock
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hypotension, tachycardia, warm skin, altered mental status
Complications	Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, death
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Variable, depending on treatment
Types	N/A
Causes	Sepsis, anaphylaxis, neurogenic shock, adrenal insufficiency
Risks	Infection, allergic reaction, spinal cord injury, adrenal crisis
Diagnosis	Clinical assessment, hemodynamic monitoring
Differential diagnosis	Hypovolemic shock, cardiogenic shock, obstructive shock
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Intravenous fluids, vasopressors, antibiotics (if sepsis), corticosteroids (if adrenal insufficiency)
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on underlying cause and response to treatment
Frequency	Common in intensive care units
Deaths	N/A

Vasodilatory shock is a type of shock that is characterized by a decrease in vascular resistance, leading to a drop in blood pressure. This can be caused by a variety of conditions, including sepsis, anaphylaxis, and certain medications.

Causes

Vasodilatory shock can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Sepsis: This is a serious condition that occurs when the body has an overwhelming immune response to an infection. Sepsis can lead to widespread inflammation and blood clotting, which can cause vasodilatory shock.
• Anaphylaxis: This is a severe allergic reaction that can cause vasodilatory shock. Anaphylaxis can cause the blood vessels to dilate, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as vasodilators, can cause vasodilatory shock. These medications work by relaxing the muscles in the walls of the blood vessels, causing them to dilate.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vasodilatory shock can vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include:

• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Shortness of breath
• Cold, clammy skin
• Confusion or loss of consciousness

Treatment

The treatment for vasodilatory shock typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include:

• Antibiotics for sepsis
• Epinephrine for anaphylaxis
• Adjusting or discontinuing the medication causing the shock

In addition, supportive care such as intravenous fluids and vasopressors may be used to help maintain blood pressure and organ function.

See also

• Septic shock
• Anaphylactic shock
• Cardiogenic shock

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