Make an Appointment
Talk to DoctorOverview
Sepsis is a serious condition where the body’s response to an infection is improper, potentially leading to organ dysfunction. Without prompt intervention, sepsis can escalate into septic shock, marked by a dangerous decrease in blood pressure that may harm vital organs like the lungs, kidneys, and liver, sometimes resulting in death. Timely treatment is vital to enhance the likelihood of survival.
Symptoms
Sepsis symptoms can include:
- A change in mental condition.
- Rapid, shallow respiration.
- Perspiring without apparent cause.
- Experience dizziness.
- Shivering.
- Symptoms specific to the type of infection, such as painful urination from a UTI or a cough that gets worse from pneumonia.
Symptoms of sepsis are non-specific and can vary from person to person. Sepsis may present differently in children than in adults.
Symptoms of septic shock
Sepsis can advance to septic shock, which is characterized by a severe drop in blood pressure. Progression to septic shock increases the risk of death. Symptoms of septic shock include:
- Being unable to get to your feet.
- Severe drowsiness or difficulty remaining awake.
- Significant mental state shift, such as profound confusion.
Any infection has the potential to lead to sepsis. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of sepsis or have an infection or wound that isn’t improving. Symptoms such as confusion or rapid breathing require emergency care.
Causes
Any infection, whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, can lead to sepsis. Common types of infections that often cause sepsis include:
- Bloodstream.
- The bladder, kidneys, and other urinary system components.
- The digestive system.
- Lung conditions like pneumonia.
- Sites for catheters.
- Burns or injuries.
Risk factors
Among the factors that increase the likelihood of an infection resulting in sepsis are:
- Early life.
- Individuals above 65.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or HIV/AIDS patients.
- Individuals suffering from long-term illnesses such renal disease, diabetes, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
- A disease for which corticosteroids, which can suppress the immune system, are necessary.
- Intravenous catheters (IV catheters) and breathing tubes are examples of devices that are placed inside the body.
- Antibiotic treatment within the last ninety days.
- Extended hospital stays or admission to the intensive care unit.
Diagnosis
Doctors frequently order multiple tests to identify underlying infections.
Blood tests
Blood samples are utilized for testing for:
- Proof of infection.
- Issues in clotting blood.
- Abnormal kidney or liver function.
- Abnormal electrolyte levels.
- Oxygen levels below what the body requires.
Other tests
Other laboratory tests to identify the source of the infection may involve samples of:
- Urine.
- Saliva and mucus from the respiratory system.
- Fluid coming from the wound.
Imaging tests
If the site of infection is not readily found, your doctor may order additional tests. Some examples of imaging tests include:
- X-ray. X-rays can reveal lung infections.
- Ultrasound. This device projects real-time graphics onto a television screen using sound waves. Kidney and gallbladder infections can be detected by ultrasound.
- Computerized Tomography (CT). This device combines X-rays taken at different angles to display cross-sectional slices of the interior of the body. Computed tomography (CT) scans make infections in the liver, pancreas, or other abdominal organs more visible.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). This device creates cross-sectional or three-dimensional images by using radio waves and a powerful magnet. Infections of the soft tissues or bones might benefit from it.
Treatment
Timely and thorough treatment enhances the prospects of recovery. People with sepsis necessitate vigilant observation and care in a hospital’s intensive care unit. This is crucial as they may require life-saving interventions to stabilize their breathing and heart functionality.
Medications
Various medications are used in the treatment of sepsis and septic shock. They include:
- Fluids added to veins. Intravenous fluids are administered as soon as possible.
- Vasopressors. Vasopressors constrict blood vessels and help raise blood pressure. A vasopressor medication may be used if blood pressure remains low even after receiving fluids.
- Antibiotics. Treatment with antibiotics should commence as soon as possible. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are effective against a variety of bacteria, are often initiated initially. Once blood test results reveal the specific germ causing the infection, the initial antibiotic may be replaced with a second one that targets the specific germ.
Other medications may be employed, such as insulin to regulate blood sugar levels, or painkillers.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary to remove sources of infection, such as pus, infected tissues, or necrotic tissues.
Supportive care
Supportive care, including oxygen therapy, is commonly provided to individuals with sepsis. In severe cases, mechanical ventilation may be necessary to assist breathing. Those experiencing compromised kidney function due to the infection may require dialysis.
