The primary cause of distributive hypotension is the widespread vasodilation of blood vessels. This can occur due to several reasons, including sepsis, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), and neurogenic shock. In sepsis, bacterial toxins induce the release of inflammatory mediators that lead to vasodilation. Anaphylaxis involves the release of histamines that cause blood vessels to dilate. Neurogenic shock is due to the loss of sympathetic tone following spinal cord injury.