Sepsis, also known as septicemia or blood poisoning, is a severe and widespread immune response in the body due to an infection or injury. It can be particularly dangerous for pregnant individuals, older adults over 65, infants, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions, putting them at a higher risk for developing this condition.
In the United States alone, about 1.7 million people encounter sepsis every year, leading to around 350,000 deaths. The symptoms of sepsis can vary depending on its severity and type of infection. Sometimes, it can progress to septic shock, a life-threatening condition where blood pressure drops sharply and multiple organ systems start to fail. In such cases, immediate medical attention in an intensive care unit (ICU) is required. Although challenging, treatments available in hospitals can often reverse sepsis.
Because sepsis involves an inflammatory response throughout the body, its symptoms can look similar to other infections or illnesses, especially at the beginning. They tend to change based on where the infection or injury is in the body. Regardless of how it presents, sepsis is an urgent medical situation. If you suspect someone has sepsis, get help right away by calling 9-1-1, as quick treatment is crucial. If not treated properly, it can turn into septic shock, which can lead to severe complications.
Sepsis occurs when the immune system’s response to an infection or injury becomes severe, releasing proteins called cytokines into the bloodstream. This overwhelming reaction is known as a cytokine storm, which can lead to blood clots and leaky blood vessels, potentially harming tissues and organs. A variety of infections and medical conditions can lead to sepsis, commonly stemming from infections in the urinary tract, lungs, kidneys, or stomach.
Individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing sepsis. Diagnosing sepsis typically happens as a patient is being stabilized in the hospital. Medical professionals will look at your medical history and test results and may also use a series of diagnostic tests to stage the disease.
Treating sepsis usually occurs in a hospital ICU, with the primary goals being to combat the infection, protect organs, and maintain stable blood pressure. This often involves several steps. Initially, doctors work to stabilize the patient’s breathing, monitoring oxygen levels closely and using a respirator if needed. Additionally, they seek to access the patient’s veins through a central venous catheter, allowing them to deliver necessary fluids and medications.
Sepsis can cause a rapid loss of fluids and blood from the vessels, a condition called hypovolemia, which can result in shock. The central venous catheter is crucial in delivering fluids and medications, such as vasopressors, to help increase blood pressure. Administering high doses of antibiotics or antimicrobial drugs via the IV is a key part of treatment as these help destroy bacteria and fight the infection. If a fungal cause is suspected, different antifungal medications may be used depending on the patient’s condition and specific infection type.
If standard treatments aren’t successful, other medications might be tried to help stabilize blood pressure and reduce inflammation. In some extreme cases, tissue and organ damage could be so extensive that surgery is necessary, which could include amputation or fluid drainage from infected areas.
Preventing sepsis involves maintaining good general health and being alert to symptoms of chronic illnesses or infections. Measures include staying informed about the signs and symptoms and ensuring chronic conditions are managed well. Certain illnesses often appear alongside sepsis, especially those impacting immune responses. With timely medical care, many people recover fully from sepsis, though it remains fatal in 15% of cases without shock, and in 56% with septic shock.
Mortality rates from sepsis can also be influenced by the presence of other diseases. Post-sepsis, some individuals might experience ongoing effects necessitating extra care. To aid recovery at home, taking specific steps can help improve health and quality of life.
