Sepsis

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have in your skin, lungs, urinary tract, or somewhere else triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.

What causes of sepsis.

When germs get into a person’s body, they can cause an infection. If that infection isn’t stopped, it can cause sepsis.

See Also

Tuberculosis

Food Safety Guidelines

Who is at risk.

Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection can lead to sepsis. Some people are at higher risk:

• Adults 65 or older
• People with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and kidney disease
• People with weakened immune systems Sepsis survivors
• Children younger than one.

The signs and symptoms.

A patient with sepsis might have one or more of the following signs or symptoms:

• High heart rate or low blood pressure
• Confusion or disorientation
• Clammy or sweaty skin
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
• Shortness of breath.

I think I might have sepsis. What should I do.

Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or your loved one has an infection that’s not getting better or is getting worse, ACT FAST. Get medical care IMMEDIATELY.