Health Tip: When a Person's in Shock

(HealthDayNews) -- For someone who's suffered a grievous physical illness or injury, the shock to the body can prove as lethal as the wound or illness itself.

Shock occurs when the body's vital functions are threatened by not getting enough blood or when the major organs and tissues don't receive enough oxygen, the Mayo Clinic says.

Symptoms can include:

• Cool and clammy skin, which may appear pale or gray.
• Weak and rapid pulse, sometimes accompanied by slow and shallow breathing or hyperventilation.
• Dull or dazed eyes, sometimes with dilated pupils.

If you suspect shock, contact emergency medical help immediately. Have the person lie down, stomach up, and elevate the feet higher than the head. Keep the person from moving unnecessarily.

Also, loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. And don't give the person anything to drink.

-- Dennis Thompson