Electric Shock

An Electric Shock is a frightening and potentially life-threatening event. It happens in an instant and can be caused by something as common as a faulty appliance cord or a workplace accident. Because electricity can cause severe hidden injuries, knowing the correct steps to take—and what not to do—is critical.

This guide will cover the causes, the symptoms to look for, and the crucial first aid and medical treatments for an electric shock injury.

What Is an Electric Shock?

An electric shock occurs when a person’s body comes into contact with a source of electricity, causing an electrical current to pass through their tissues. Our bodies are excellent conductors of electricity, and this flow of current can damage internal organs, the nervous system, and skin.

The severity of the injury depends on several factors:

• Voltage: High-voltage sources (like power lines) cause more damage than low-voltage household currents (110-220 volts). However, low-voltage shocks can still be fatal.
• Path of the Current: Electricity that passes through the chest can cause a fatal heart rhythm.
• Duration of Contact: The longer the contact, the more severe the injury.

Common Causes of Electric Shock

Most electrical injuries are accidental and often preventable. Common causes include:

• Damaged or Frayed Electrical Cords: This is a common household hazard.
• Faulty Appliances or Tools: Internal wiring may be defective.
• Contact with Water: Using electrical devices with wet hands or near water (e.g., a hairdryer in the bathroom).
• Improper Wiring: Old or non-compliant electrical work in a home.
• Contact with Power Lines: This is a major cause of high-voltage injuries.
• Children Biting Cords or Sticking Objects into Outlets.

Key Symptoms of an Electric Shock

The symptoms of an electric shock injury can be immediate and obvious, or they can be delayed. The person may not have any visible marks but could still have serious internal injuries.

Immediate symptoms include:

• Visible Burns: Electricity can cause burns at the “entry” and “exit” points where the current passed through the body.
• Muscle Contractions: The shock can cause severe muscle spasms, which may be strong enough to throw the person or prevent them from letting go of the source.
• Loss of Consciousness: The person may pass out.
• Difficulty Breathing or No Breathing: The current can paralyze the muscles of the chest, including the diaphragm.
• Abnormal Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmia): This is the most dangerous immediate effect and can lead to cardiac arrest.
• Numbness or Tingling

Delayed symptoms can appear hours or days later and include muscle aches, pain, numbness, or weakness.

What to Do After an Electric Shock (First Aid)

This is a medical emergency. Your actions in the first few seconds are critical.

1. DO NOT TOUCH THE PERSON: If the person is still in contact with the electrical source, do not touch them with your bare hands, or the electricity will pass through you as well.

2. SHUT OFF THE POWER: The safest first step is to turn off the power source immediately. Unplug the cord, flip the circuit breaker, or turn off the main power switch.

3. SEPARATE THE PERSON (IF SAFE): If you cannot turn off the power, use a non-conductive object to separate the person from the source. * Use: Dry wood (like a broom handle), a dry piece of cloth, or a rubber mat. * Do NOT use: Anything metal or anything wet.

4. CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES: Once the person is safe from the current, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. All electrical shock victims need to be evaluated by a medical professional.

5. CHECK FOR BREATHING AND PULSE: * If the person is not breathing or you cannot find a pulse, begin CPR immediately if you are trained. * If they are breathing, lay them down with their head tilted back.

6. TREAT VISIBLE INJURIES: * Burns: Cover any burns with a sterile gauze bandage. Do not use blankets or towels, as loose fibers can stick to the burns. * Shock: The person may go into medical shock. Lay them down and cover them with a blanket to keep them warm.

Diagnosis

In the hospital, doctors will act quickly to assess the damage. According to MedlinePlus, diagnosis involves:

• ECG (Electrocardiogram): To check the heart’s rhythm for any abnormalities.
• Blood and Urine Tests: To check for muscle enzymes (which indicate muscle damage) and to check kidney function.
• Imaging: X-rays or CT scans may be used to check for fractures or internal injuries caused by muscle contractions or a fall.

Treatment Options for Electric Shock

Treatment depends on the severity of the shock.

• Heart Monitoring: Everyone who has had a significant shock will be monitored with an ECG.
• Burn Care: Electrical burn treatment is a specialized field. The victim may be transferred to a burn unit. This can involve cleaning the wounds, applying medicated creams, and possibly skin grafts.
• Pain Management: Electrical injuries can be extremely painful.
• Surgery: In severe cases, muscle or tissue can be so badly damaged that it dies. A surgeon may need to remove this dead tissue (debridement) or, in the worst cases, perform an amputation.

Risk Factors

• Occupation: Electricians, utility workers, and construction workers have a high risk.
• Household Hazards: Old or faulty wiring, or damaged appliance cords.
• Children: Young children are at high risk from household outlets and cords.
• Outdoor Activities: Working or playing near overhead power lines.

Prevention Tips

• Inspect Cords: Regularly check all electrical cords for frays or damage.
• Use Outlet Covers: If you have small children, block unused outlets.
• Avoid Water: Never use electronics in or near water.
• Hire a Professional: Do not attempt electrical work unless you are qualified.
• Be Aware of Power Lines: Always look up and be aware of overhead power lines when using ladders, scaffolding, or working outdoors.

When to See a Doctor

You must seek medical evaluation after ANY electric shock (other than a very minor static shock, like from a carpet).

Go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately if the person:

• Lost consciousness (even briefly)
• Is confused or has difficulty speaking
• Has any burns on their skin
• Is having trouble breathing
• Complains of chest pain or a racing heart
• Is numb or tingling
• Is pregnant (the shock can harm the fetus)

Because an electric shock can cause delayed damage to the heart and other organs, a medical check-up is the only way to ensure safety.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Published on August 8, 2023 and Last Updated on October 30, 2025 by: Priyank Pandey