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What is severe sepsis?
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Can a person develop severe sepsis?
Sep 2, 2012 · Severe sepsis is sepsis (known or suspected infection with systemic manifestations of sepsis) along with sepsis-related tissue hypoperfusion or organ dysfunction. Organ dysfunction or tissue hypoperfusion are defined by the Surviving Sepsis Campaign as any of the below signs or findings:
Severe sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection damages vital organs. Learn the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment of severe sepsis from Sepsis Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to sepsis awareness and prevention.
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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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Jan 19, 2023 · Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency caused by your body’s overwhelming response to an infection. Learn about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of sepsis, and how to prevent it from happening.
Jul 19, 2023 · Sepsis is a serious condition that happens when the body’s immune system has an extreme response to an infection. It can cause damage to its own tissues and organs and lead to septic shock, multiple organ failure and death. WHO provides key facts, prevention tips, common causes, signs and symptoms, treatment options and global goals for sepsis.
Apr 1, 2020 · Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, and septic shock is sepsis with circulatory, cellular, and metabolic dysfunction that is associated with a higher risk of mortality. The 2016 guidelines provide a new definition of sepsis, a tool for early diagnosis, and a protocol for early treatment.
Aug 24, 2023 · Sepsis is a life-threatening response to an infection that can cause organ failure and death. Learn how to recognize the signs of sepsis, who is at risk, and what to do if you or someone you know has sepsis.
