Sepsis is a serious medical condition that can lead to death if not treated promptly. It occurs when the body’s immune system responds to an infection by triggering widespread inflammation throughout the body, causing damage to tissues and organs.

Sepsis can happen to anyone, but people who are very young, very old, or have weak immune systems are at higher risk. In this article, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of sepsis.

Causes of Sepsis

The most common cause of sepsis is bacterial infections, but fungal, viral, or parasitic infections can also lead to sepsis. Some of the most common infections linked to sepsis include:.

Pneumonia
Urinary tract infections
Meningitis
Cellulitis
Appendicitis
Abdominal infections
Bloodstream infections
Wound infections

Sepsis can also develop after a surgery, especially if the wound becomes infected. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, leukemia, or cancer, are at higher risk of developing sepsis.

Symptoms of Sepsis

The most common symptoms of sepsis include:.

Fever
Rapid heartbeat
Rapid breathing
Confusion or disorientation
Reduced urine output
Severe muscle pain and weakness

As sepsis progresses, it can cause septic shock, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when sepsis leads to dangerously low blood pressure. Some of the symptoms of septic shock include:.

Low blood pressure
Dizziness or fainting
Lethargy or confusion
Rapid breathing
Cold, clammy skin

If left untreated, septic shock can lead to multiple organ failure and death.

Diagnosis of Sepsis

Doctors typically diagnose sepsis by performing a physical exam and running diagnostic tests to determine if there’s an infection present. These tests may include blood tests, urine tests, imaging tests, or cultures of wound or fluid samples.

Once a diagnosis of sepsis has been made, doctors will determine the best treatment plan for the patient.

Treatment of Sepsis

Immediate treatment is necessary for sepsis, as it can lead to life-threatening complications. Treatment usually involves hospitalization and may include:.

Administration of IV antibiotics to treat the infection
IV fluids to maintain blood pressure
Vasopressors, which are medications that help constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure
Oxygen therapy to improve breathing
Surgery to remove infected tissue

The earlier sepsis is detected and treated, the better the chance of a full recovery. However, even with prompt treatment, sepsis can be a serious and life-threatening condition.

Prevention of Sepsis

Prevention of sepsis involves taking measures to reduce the risk of infection, including:.

Washing hands frequently
Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Cleaning and treating wounds properly
Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine to boost the immune system
Getting recommended vaccinations

People who are at higher risk of sepsis should be extra diligent about taking measures to avoid infection.

Conclusion

Sepsis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can be caused by a variety of infections. Knowing the causes and symptoms of sepsis can help with prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Take steps to prevent infections and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of developing sepsis. If you suspect you or a loved one may have sepsis, seek medical attention immediately.