How is neurogenic shock characterized?

Neurogenic shock is characterized specifically by hypotension and bradycardia, along with warm and dry skin. This condition occurs due to a disruption in the autonomic nervous system, often caused by spinal cord injuries, which leads to loss of vasomotor tone and results in widespread vasodilation. This vasodilation leads to a significant drop in blood pressure (hypotension).

Unlike other forms of shock, neurogenic shock typically does not induce a compensatory heart rate increase (tachycardia). Instead, due to the loss of sympathetic tone, the heart rate may actually slow down (bradycardia). The skin can be warm and dry because of the vasodilation, which allows blood to pool in the periphery rather than returning to the core, contrary to other shock states where skin might be cool and clammy due to decreased perfusion.

This distinct combination of hypotension, bradycardia, and warm/dry skin helps differentiate neurogenic shock from other types of shock, such as hypovolemic or septic shock, which present with different symptoms.