Although a rare illness, sepsis can be a severe health condition which in some cases can lead to multiple organ failure. It occurs when the immune system responds to an infection and accidentally triggers a sequence of reactions throughout the body which causes inflammation of several organs as well as blood clotting.
Who is vulnerable to sepsis?
Depending on the physical circumstances, sepsis is a condition that can happen to anyone. However, there are certain types of patients who are more susceptible to contract sepsis.
- Extremely old or young (babies) patients can suffer from sepsis. This is because seniors have a deteriorating immune system whereas infants don’t have a completely developed resistance mechanism.
- Individuals suffering from chronic disorders such as diabetes, cancer, HIV, etc.
- A person who has recently sustained serious injuries which can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream.
Early sepsis symptoms
- Fever with an unusually high level of temperature. Additionally, a person could also experience constant trembling and chills.
- Elevated breathing patterns.
- Abnormal perspiration.
- Increased heart rate or pulse rate, exceeding 90 beats every minute.
If you notice any of the early sepsis symptoms mentioned above then immediately seek medical intervention to gain proper diagnosis and treatment. Such early sepsis symptoms can help you effectively tackle the condition at its initial stage.
Severe symptoms
In severe cases of sepsis, there can be a risk of organ failures. This can mostly happen when the patient has experienced grave injuries or has recently had a major surgery. In such instances, apart from early sepsis symptoms, you should observe the following signs as well.
- Changes in the mental functions, i.e., constantly feeling disoriented.
- Losing consciousness.
- Discoloration or formation of patchy skin.
- Trouble while breathing.
- Reduced urination frequency.
- An extreme drop in the blood pressure.
- Diminished in blood platelet count.
- Pain in the abdomen and muscles.
Sepsis treatment
Early diagnosis of sepsis is crucial as it will enhance the chances of combating sepsis successfully. Depending on the severity doctors might treat you with antibiotics to deal with the bacteria, and vasopressors in cases where there is a significant decrease in the blood pressure. The doctors might also prescribe patients with sedatives, painkillers, insulin doses (for diabetic patients), etc.
In extreme conditions, one might require support system supplying oxygen and intravenous liquids to the body. This usually happens when the person faces difficulty while breathing and is unable to have solid food. Surgery can also be used to eliminate areas of infection which may gather abscesses.
