Sepsis, also known as blood poisoning, is a life-threatening condition that develops when the body’s response to an infection goes into overdrive.

It is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment, as it can progress rapidly and lead to organ failure, septic shock, and death. Sepsis can affect anyone, but people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions are at higher risk.

Early Symptoms of Sepsis

The early symptoms of sepsis can be similar to those of a flu or a minor infection, making it difficult to recognize. However, it is important to be aware of the first symptoms of sepsis, as early treatment can improve your chances of recovery.

Here are ten early symptoms of sepsis to look out for:.

Fever or Hypothermia

One of the most common early symptoms of sepsis is fever, which is a sign that your body is fighting an infection. Your body temperature may rise above the normal range of 98.6°F (37°C).

However, in some cases, sepsis can cause hypothermia, which is a drop in body temperature. This can be a sign of severe sepsis or septic shock.

Rapid Heartbeat

Another early symptom of sepsis is a rapid heartbeat or tachycardia, which is a sign that your heart is working harder to pump blood to your organs and tissues. Your heart rate may be higher than 90 beats per minute.

This can be accompanied by low blood pressure, which can make you feel dizzy or light-headed.

Rapid Breathing

Sepsis can also cause rapid breathing or shortness of breath, which is a sign that your lungs are struggling to get enough oxygen. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath or need to gasp for air.

This can be a sign of sepsis-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe lung condition.

Related Article Recognizing the Early Signs of Sepsis

Confusion or Disorientation

Sepsis can affect your brain function and cause confusion, disorientation, or a change in mental status. You may feel drowsy, delirious, or have trouble concentrating.

This can be a sign of sepsis-induced encephalopathy, which is a condition that affects your brain function.

Muscle Pain or Weakness

Sepsis can cause muscle pain, weakness, or fatigue, which can be a sign of sepsis-induced muscle wasting or myopathy. This can make it difficult to move or perform daily activities. You may also feel achy or stiff, as if you have the flu.

Nausea or Vomiting

Sepsis can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This can be a sign that your gut is inflamed or infected. You may also have abdominal pain or discomfort.

Skin Rash or Discoloration

Sepsis can cause a skin rash, redness, or discoloration, which can be a sign of sepsis-induced purpura or petechiae. This is a condition that causes tiny blood vessels under the skin to burst and bleed, resulting in small, reddish-purple spots.

Low Urine Output

Sepsis can affect your kidney function and cause a decrease in urine output, which can be a sign of acute kidney injury or renal failure. You may feel like you need to urinate less frequently or have dark, concentrated urine.

Chills or Sweats

Sepsis can cause chills or sweats, which can be a sign of a fever or an abnormal regulation of body temperature. You may feel cold despite having a high body temperature or break out in sweat suddenly.

Pain or Swelling

Sepsis can cause pain or swelling in different parts of your body, depending on where the infection is. You may have pain in your joints, muscles, or abdomen. You may also have swelling in your limbs, face, or abdomen.

Conclusion

If you experience any of these early symptoms of sepsis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

If you delay seeking treatment, sepsis can progress rapidly and cause permanent damage to your organs or even be fatal. Remember, early recognition and treatment of sepsis can save lives.