An incidental infection is part of life. Some, such as the cold, go away in itself with peace and self -care. But in many cases getting treatment is important – not only to reduce your symptoms and to help you get better faster, but also to prevent complications such as sepsis.
Sepsis is a medical emergency that can occur when an infection is too strong for the body’s immune system. It requires immediate treatment, and although some people run a higher risk, everyone can get it. Learn why Sepsis happens, drawing and symptoms to pay attention and what treatment looks like.
Note: If you experience Sepsis symptoms or have an infection that gets worse quickly, call 911 or go to a first aid.
Sepsis happens when an infection turns the body against itself
When you have an infection, your white blood cells will travel to the place of infection. The process of the white blood cells that fight the infection creates inflammation and swelling in that area.
Sepsis can occur when an infection is serious or when your immune system is not strong enough to fight with it. In these cases the infection spreads over your body, just like the inflammatory reaction of the body. This widespread inflammation reduces blood flow by your body, which can cause blood pressure decrease. When this happens, your tissues and organs cannot get enough oxygen to function properly, which can lead to septic shock and organ failure if you do not receive emergency treatment.
The most important risk factor for Sepsis is a weakened immune system
Our immune system is usually pretty good at preventing infections that become sepsis. However, sometimes a serious infection can lead to sepsis, even with other healthy people. It is easier for infections to become serious in groups with weaker immune systems, such as:
- Babies
- Elderly
- People with chronic health problems such as diabetes, cancer or organ -related disorders
- Pregnant women
Sepsis is usually caused by bacterial infections
Many types of infections – bacterial, viral or fungus – can lead to sepsis, but bacterial infections are the most common. Sepsis is usually associated with infections of the:
- Gastrointestinal tract
- Lung
- Skin
- Urinary tract
Sepsis symptoms can vary per age and infection type
Because sepsis can result from most types of infections, the initial infection symptoms vary. For example, a respiratory infection can hold a sore throat and a cough, while a urinary tract infection can painfully urinate urination. However, as soon as an infection becomes septic, there are usually extra, more clear symptoms.
What does Sepsis look like?
The combination of an infection-related fever and the characteristic decrease in sepsis blood flow can give it a series of visible symptoms, including:
- Discolored skin that can look stained or bruised
- Fast, shallow breathing
- Shivering
- Inexplicable sweating
How does Sepsis feel?
In addition to visible symptoms, someone who experiences sepsis can feel:
- Chilled or feverish
- Confused or disoriented
- Light in the head
- Muscularity
- A fast heartbeat
Sepsis symptoms in young children and babies
Babies and children with sepsis have symptoms that are similar to those in adults. However, certain symptoms may not be so clear in children who are not old enough to fully communicate how they feel.
Sepsis symptoms in babies and children can be:
- Difficult breathing (this may seem like growl or pausing with any breathing, or trouble speaking)
- Extreme sleepiness, difficulties awake or confusion
- Fast, shallow breathing or a fast heartbeat
- Fever or chills
- Floppy limbs
- Frequent vomiting
- General lack of interest in food, toys or other stimuli
- Irritability (children who are old enough to communicate can complain about body pain)
- Pee less than normal
- Sweaty, discolored or pale skin
Septic shock has more serious symptoms
Septic shock occurs when blood pressure falls low enough to influence the organ function. When this happens, the symptoms of Sepsis become more serious. Symptoms of septic shock include:
- Cold, Klamse Skin
- Extreme
- Feelings of dizziness or faint, which can lead to fainting
- Pee less than normal
- Serious muscle pain
- Unclear speech
- Very difficult breathing
Doctors usually diagnose sepsis by assessing symptoms and measuring vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory speed, temperature and blood pressure. After a diagnosis, doctors can order tests to determine the type and source of the underlying infection. This is generally done with the help of blood or other body fluid samples. In some cases they can also order imaging tests such as X -rays, ultrasound or computer tomography (CT) scans to look for signs of infection in organs, tissues or bones.
Sepsis is treated in the hospital
Sepsis is treated in the hospital as a medical emergency. The full course of the treatment can vary, depending on the severity and the underlying infection, but generally starts with:
- Wide -spectrum antibiotics To combat the infection. Once the cause of the infection has been identified, a more specific medication will be used.
- Intravenous (IV) liquids To restore hydration, support the blood circulation and prevent kidney failure.
Other possible treatments can be:
- Vasopresser medication To increase blood pressure.
- Dialysis To filter body fluids instead of the kidneys.
- Mechanical ventilation To help with breathing.
- Oxygen supplementation To support the organ function.
- Surgery To remove infected tissue.
If you suspect Sepsis, do not take any risks
Sepsis is a life -threatening condition and the sooner the treatment starts, the better. If you or someone you love experience symptoms of sepsis or have an infection that gets worse quickly, call 911 or go to a first aid immediately.
