Foods, medications, and insects are common causes of which type of shock?

• A. Neurogenic shock
• B. Septic shock
• C. Anaphylactic shock
• D. Psychogenic shock

Answer: (C)

An allergic reaction triggered by foods, medications, or insect stings can rapidly progress to anaphylactic shock. In this response, the immune system releases mediators like histamine that cause widespread vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Airway edema and bronchoconstriction can also occur, making breathing difficult. The combination of low blood pressure and airway compromise defines this form of shock and explains why these common exposures can precipitate it.

This differs from neurogenic shock, which results from loss of sympathetic tone after spinal injury and is not driven by an allergic reaction. Septic shock comes from a systemic infection and toxin-mediated inflammation, not an immediate allergen exposure. Psychogenic shock is fainting due to psychological factors, not an immune-mediated process.