What is a common sign of shock?

A common sign of shock is pale or bluish skin. This occurs because, during shock, the body is not receiving enough blood flow, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to the tissues. As a result, the skin may appear pale due to blood being diverted from the surface to vital organs to maintain their function. In some cases, the skin can also take on a bluish tint, particularly in areas such as the lips, fingertips, or earlobes, which indicates a lack of adequate oxygenation.

The other options present signs that can be associated with different medical conditions but are not characteristic of shock specifically. Red, flushed skin might indicate increased blood flow due to factors like fever or an allergic reaction, while high fever is typically a sign of infection rather than shock. Excessive sweating can occur in many situations, including hormonal changes, anxiety, or heat, but it does not directly indicate shock.