Before we begin: Sepsis is a serious illness and can lead to a life threatening condition called septic shock. Read about symptoms, treatment and risk factors for sepsis.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about sepsis. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is sepsis? Sepsis is your body’s overactive and extreme response to an infection. Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency. Without quick treatment, it can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death.
What causes sepsis? Sepsis happens when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Bacterial infections are the most common cause, but other types of infections can also cause it.
The infections are often in the lungs, stomach, kidneys, or bladder. It’s possible for sepsis to begin with a small cut that gets infected or with an infection that develops after surgery. Sometimes, sepsis can occur in people who didn’t even know that they had an infection.
Who is more likely to develop sepsis? Anyone with an infection could get sepsis. But certain people are more likely to develop it:
Adults 65 or older
People with chronic (long-lasting) conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and kidney disease
People with weakened immune systems
Pregnant women
Children younger than one
What are the symptoms of sepsis? Sepsis can cause one or more of these symptoms:
Rapid breathing and heart rate
Shortness of breath
Confusion or disorientation
Extreme pain or discomfort
Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
Clammy or sweaty skin
It’s important to get medical care right away if you think you might have sepsis or if your infection is not getting better or is getting worse.
What other problems can sepsis cause? Severe cases of sepsis can lead to septic shock, where your blood pressure drops to a dangerous level and multiple organs can fail.
How is sepsis diagnosed? To find out if you have sepsis, your health care provider:
Will take your medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms
Will do a physical exam, which includes checking vital signs (your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing)
Will likely order lab tests that check for signs of infection or organ damage
May order imaging tests such as an x-ray or a CT scan to find the location of the infection
Many of the signs and symptoms of sepsis can also be caused by other medical conditions. This may make sepsis hard to diagnose in its early stages.
What are the treatments for sepsis? It is very important to get treatment right away. Treatment usually includes:
Antibiotics.
Maintaining blood flow to organs. This may involve getting oxygen and intravenous (IV) fluids.
Treating the source of the infection.
If needed, medicines to increase blood pressure.
In serious cases, you might need kidney dialysis or a breathing tube. Some people need surgery to remove tissue damaged by the infection.
Can sepsis be prevented? To prevent sepsis, you should try to prevent getting an infection:
Take good care of any chronic health conditions that you have
Get recommended vaccines
Practice good hygiene, such as handwashing
Keep cuts clean and covered until healed
NIH: National Institute of General Medical SciencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention
Related topics: Bacteremia, Blood Poisoning, Septic Shock, Septicemia, Toxic Shock Syndrome.
Categories: Infections.
Source: National Institutes of Health — National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Key Takeaways
Understanding sepsis is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.