Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency caused by the body’s response to an infection, thereby causing the immune system to harm healthy tissues and organs. It occurs when an infection you already have—in your skin, lungs, urinary tract, or somewhere else—triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. It can be hard to spot, and without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
While any type of infection, bacterial, viral, or fungal, can lead to sepsis, the most likely varieties include pneumonia; infection of the digestive system (which includes organs such as the stomach and colon); infection of the kidney, bladder, and other parts of the urinary system, which are commonly known as urinary tract infections (UTIs); and bloodstream infection (bacteremia).
According to the WHO, maternal sepsis is the third most common cause of maternal mortality, causing approximately 11% of global maternal deaths. It is a life-threatening condition arising from infection during pregnancy, childbirth, post-abortion, or the postpartum period.
World Sepsis Day is celebrated annually on September 13 to create awareness about the deadly disease.
Who is at risk of getting sepsis?
- Adults aged 65 and above
- Pregnant women
- Children younger than 1
- People who have chronic conditions, such as diabetes, kidney or lung disease, or cancer
- People who have weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or those in chemotherapy treatment for cancer
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme weakness
- Fever or chills
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Mental Confusion or disorientation
- High heart rate or low blood pressure
- Patches of discolored skin
- Decreased urination
Diagnosis
If you have symptoms of sepsis, your doctor will order tests to make a diagnosis and determine the severity of your infection.
- Blood Test
- a urine test (to check for bacteria in your urine)
- a wound secretion test (to check an open wound for an infection)
- a mucus secretion test (to identify germs responsible for an infection)
- X-rays to view the lungs
Sepsis Treatment
Sepsis can quickly progress to septic shock and death if it’s left untreated. Doctors use several medications to treat it, including:
- antibiotics via IV to fight infection
- vasoactive medications to increase blood pressure
- insulin to stabilize blood sugar
- corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- painkillers
Prevention
Taking steps to prevent the spread of infection can reduce your risk of developing sepsis. These include:
- Staying up to date on your vaccinations. Get vaccinated for the flu, pneumonia, and other infections.
- Practicing good hygiene. This means practicing proper wound care, handwashing, and bathing regularly.
- Get immediate care if you develop signs of infection. Every minute counts when it comes to sepsis treatment. The sooner you get treatment, the better the outcome.