What does psychogenic shock commonly cause?

Psychogenic shock is primarily associated with fainting or syncope, which occurs due to a temporary dilation of blood vessels. This dilation causes blood to pool in the lower extremities, reducing blood flow to the brain. As a result, the individual may lose consciousness for a brief period. It is often triggered by emotional distress, pain, or fear. Understanding this physiological response is crucial in differentiating psychogenic shock from other types of shock, which may involve different mechanisms and symptoms.

The other options present physiological conditions that are not typically linked to psychogenic shock. Severe respiratory difficulty can occur in other types of shock, such as anaphylactic shock, where airway obstruction happens. Paralysis of extremities is indicative of neurological issues or spinal injuries rather than psychogenic causes. Loss of consciousness from oxygen deprivation signifies hypoxia, which is more associated with respiratory or cardiac issues rather than being a direct result of psychogenic factors.