A potentially fatal medical emergency, sepsis is brought on by your body’s overreaction to an infection. It can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and even death if treatment is not received quickly.
Which three phases make up sepsis?
Sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock were the three stages into which medical professionals used to classify it. They may now recognize the ailment on a broader spectrum. This spectrum includes conditions like infection and bacteremia (bloodstream bacteria) to sepsis and septic shock, which can cause multiple organ failure and even death.
Sepsis affects who?
Although anyone can get it, those who have an infection of any kind, particularly bacteremia, are more vulnerable.
Other individuals who pose a significant risk are:
- Individuals who are 65 years of age or older, babies, and expectant mothers.
- Individuals suffering from illnesses like diabetes, obesity, cancer, and kidney problems.
- Those whose immune systems are compromised.
- Those who are receiving medical care at the hospital for other reasons.
- Those who have sustained serious wounds or burns.
- Those who are breathing tube, IV, or catheter users.
What signs of sepsis are present?
There are numerous possible signs of sepsis because it can affect many different parts of your body.
Skin sepsis rash may appear if an infection, such as blood poisoning (septicemia), caused your illness. Your skin appears red and discoloured due to the rash. Your skin may have tiny, dark-red patches on it.
Other typical signs include:
- Problems with the urine, such decreased urination or a strong urge to urinate.
- Low vigor/fragility.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Low intensity of pulse.
- Hypothermia, or extremely low body temperature, or fever.
- Chills or shaking.
- Warm, clammy, or perspiring skin.
- Agitation or confusion.
- Breathlessness or hyperventilation (rapid breathing).
- Extreme discomfort or pain.
Why does sepsis occur?
One of the most frequent causes of sepsis is bacterial infections. Viral, parasite, and fungus infections can also result in sepsis. It can occur when an infection sets off a series of events that lead to organ malfunction throughout your body.
Sepsis-causing infections can originate from a variety of body sites. It is commonly caused by the following common sites and types of infections:
Breathing system
Respiratory infections, like pneumonia.
The urinary tract
You are more susceptible to urinary tract infections if you use a catheter.
The digestive system
- An appendix infection (appendicitis).
- Bowel issues.
- Abdominal cavity infection (peritonitis).
- Liver or gallbladder infections.
Neural system in the centre
Infections in the spinal cord or brain.
Cutaneous
- You can get bacteria on your skin from cuts, sores, or punctures from IVs and catheters.
- Diseases like cellulitis, which is an infection of the connective tissue in your skin.
Avoidance
What can I do to stop it?
The following actions can be taken to avoid sepsis:
- Observing excellent hygiene, which includes washing your hands.
- Keeping wounds and cuts clean and protected until they are healed.
- Staying current with advised vaccinations.
- Receiving regular medical attention for long-term illnesses.
- Seeking medical assistance right away if you think you may have an infection.
