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Nov 18, 2022 · Early recognition and quick treatment are key to surviving sepsis, but many people do not know what it looks like. This article will outline what sepsis is, how it feels, and what to do if you think you're at risk for it.
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Symptoms of sepsis
Symptoms of sepsis may include:
Symptoms of septic shock
Sepsis may progress to septic shock. Septic shock is a severe drop in blood pressure. Progression to septic shock raises the risk of death. Symptoms of septic shock include:
Any infection could lead to sepsis. Go to a health care provider if you have symptoms of sepsis or an infection or wound that isn't getting better.
Symptoms such as confusion or fast breathing need emergency care.
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Any type of infection can lead to sepsis. This includes bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Those that more commonly cause sepsis include infections of:
•Lungs, such as pneumonia.
•Kidney, bladder and other parts of the urinary system.
•Digestive system.
•Bloodstream.
•Catheter sites.
Some factors that increase the risk infection will lead to sepsis include:
•People over age 65.
•Infancy.
•People with lower immune response, such as those being treated for cancer or people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
•People with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, kidney disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
•Admission to intensive care unit or longer hospital stays.
As sepsis worsens, vital organs, such as the brain, heart and kidneys, don't get as much blood as they should. Sepsis may cause atypical blood clotting. The resulting small clots or burst blood vessels may damage or destroy tissues.
Most people recover from mild sepsis, but the mortality rate for septic shock is about 30% to 40%. Also, an episode of severe sepsis raises the risk for future infections.
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By Mayo Clinic Staff
Feb 10, 2023
1.Forrester JD. Sepsis and septic shock. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/critical-care-medicine/sepsis-and-septic-shock/sepsis-and-septic-shock. Accessed Nov. 19, 2022.
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Mar 8, 2024 · Check patient progress frequently. Treatment requires urgent medical care, usually in an intensive care unit in a hospital, and includes careful monitoring of vital signs. Reassess patients with sepsis early and frequently to determine the appropriate duration and type of therapy. Resources.
Jan 19, 2023 · Providers may sometimes suspect sepsis at bedside using the set of sepsis criteria — a tool called quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA). You may have sepsis if you have confirmed or probable infection and at least two of the following criteria:
Mar 7, 2024 · After you have had sepsis, rehabilitation usually starts in the hospital by slowly helping you to move around and look after yourself: sitting up, standing, walking, taking yourself to the restroom, bathing and other activities. The purpose of rehabilitation is to restore you back to your previous level of health or as close to it as possible.
Nov 21, 2023 · Early signs of sepsis include fever, chills, hypothermia, fast heart rate, rapid breathing, and low blood pressure. When sepsis is suspected immediate medical attention is imperative. Sepsis is usually caused by bacterial infections.
Sep 10, 2023 · Check symptoms. Sepsis is a reaction by the body to severe infection with a bacterial, virus or fungal germ. It’s always a medical emergency, and can be fatal if not caught early. You can arm yourself against this by knowing the symptoms so you can seek help early.
