When oxygen is not adequately supplied to all of the organs and tissues of the body, shock will most likely occur. Shock is inadequate tissue perfusion. If oxygen is not delivered to the cells and organs, they then begin to die out. Once certain organs die, they cannot be revived thus will cause the body to begin shutting down. For example, the brain cannot go without oxygen for more than 4 to 6 minutes without irreversible brain damage. Some of the causes of shock can be fluid loss whether it be by loss of blood, or also an infection that enters the body and is not treated. To better understand all of the causes of shock, we should look into the different types of shock first. Some of these include Anaphylactic, Cardiogenic, and Hypovolemic.

Septic shock, as we stated above is normally the cause of an infection, normally bacterial in which toxins are released into the body. This type of shock is normally found to be a result of pneumonia and meningitis. Some of the symptoms of septic shock are fever, chills, and rapid breathing. This type of shock is more common in infants, older adults and people who have a condition or disease that affects their immune systems. This type of shock is treatable with medications, antibiotics, and fluids. Anaphylactic shock occurs when an allergic reaction is introduced into the body. This can be by means of a sting, venom, or certain foods. Anaphylactic shock occurs when one of the triggers cause your blood pressure to drop and your airways to narrow. The patient then finds it difficult to breath and can further cause harm. Anaphylactic shock is treatable but can be life threatening if treatment is not sought out immediately.