Diagnosis of Shock

In those cases in which an injury has been sustained sufficient to induce shock, the pulse is small or rapid and the heart's action is enfeebled. In extreme cases the pulse is thread-like; there is general relaxation; the skin is bathed in perspiration, at first cool only, later cold.

The extremities are cold; the eyes are clear, but the pupils are dilated; the mind is clear, and sometimes when there is nervous irritation, its action is quickened. Occasionally there is vomiting, with involuntary evacuation of the bowels. The respiration is slow, sometimes irregular and occasionally sighing. The temperature is usually subnormal. There is but little pain.

Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Vol. 2, 1908, was edited by Finley Ellingwood M.D.