The Effects of Electric Shock on the Body

When electric shock is brought up in conversation, it is usually centered on the topic of capital punishment. Although use of electric shock in executions has been replaced by lethal injection in the United States, the imagery is still commonly used in film and television. Death by shock is called electrocution, but shock can also be as benign as the buzzing feeling one gets when they touch a faulty Christmas bulb.

What Causes Shock

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Technically speaking, this type of shock occurs when the human body comes into contact with any source of voltage that is high enough to cause current through the muscles or hair. The minimum amount of current that is needed for a human to feel the effects is 1 milliampere or mA.

On the other side of the spectrum, currents close to 100 mA are generally lethal when they pass through sensitive areas of the body. In between slight shock which only results in a tingling sensation and electrocution, there are a number of medical complications that can arise.

Burns from Shock

Shock can result in severe burns. Smaller voltage levels result in more superficial burns on the skin's surface. But voltage levels of 500 to 1000 volts can cause internal burns. The potential for organ burns, including the heart, is what makes electrical burns significantly different from other forms of burns such as chemical, fire or grease. These burns can result in organ failure and eventual death.

The burns are often very deep and much trickier to treat than other burns. The healing process therefore is usually a much slower and arduous one.

The Effects of Shock on the Brain

Shock also affects the brain when it occurs at certain voltage levels or when the shock occurs right around the brain. When current passes through the brain, it can cause interference with the nervous system. This can adversely affect nervous system control over organs such as the heart and lungs. Repeated or severe electric shock can result in neuropathy.

Electric Shock and Appliances

There are millions of shock cases every year which are caused by everyday household or beauty appliances. It is vital that consumers are aware of the potential for electric shock and that they take any extra safety precautions suggested while using these products.

The Effects of Electric Shock on the Body

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