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A tool to define the severity of sepsis and septic shock based on clinical signs, symptoms, and laboratory data. Learn the criteria, pearls, pitfalls, and insights from the creator of the consensus statement on the SIRS criteria and septic protocol.
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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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Sepsis is a serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection, causing organ damage and sometimes death. Learn about the symptoms, causes, risk factors and complications of sepsis and septic shock.
Learn what severe sepsis is, how it affects your organs, and what symptoms to look for. Find out how it is treated and what complications it can cause.
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