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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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Aug 10, 2022 · Sepsis is a life-threatening complication of infection. And in the early stages, sepsis symptoms can be subtle and varied. Recognizing the early signs can make the difference in survival and recovery.
Nov 9, 2021 · Your doctor may need to do several rounds of tests to determine whether you have sepsis. The initial round will likely include a general blood chemistry and cell count test. The secondary tests are likely to include blood cultures and urinalysis.
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 8, 2024 · If you suspect sepsis. Know your facility's guidance for diagnosing and managing sepsis. Immediately alert the healthcare provider overseeing care of the patient if it is not you. Start antibiotics as soon as possible in addition to other therapies appropriate for the patient.
UPMC > Our Services > UPMC Center for Care of Infectious Diseases > Conditions We Treat > Sepsis (Blood Infection) Sepsis is an emergency blood infection that can lead to death within hours without proper treatment. Sepsis occurs when the body has an extreme immunological reaction to an infection.
