Sepsis is a serious medical condition caused by the body's response to an infection. Bacterial infections are the most common cause of sepsis. Sepsis can be life-threatening. Show
OverviewWhat is sepsis?Sepsis is a medical emergency caused by the body's response to an infection and can be life-threatening. Sepsis is the consequence of widespread inflammation (swelling) in the body. Inflammation and blood clotting during sepsis causes reduced blood flow to limbs and vital organs, and can lead to organ failure and even death. Over 1.5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with sepsis yearly, and approximately 30% of patients do not survive. Who is at risk for sepsis?Sepsis can affect anyone, but those at particular risk include:
Symptoms and CausesWhat causes sepsis?Bacterial infections are the most common cause of sepsis. Sepsis can also be caused by fungal, parasitic, or viral infections. The source of the infection can be any of a number of places throughout the body. Common sites and types of infection that can lead to sepsis include:
What are the symptoms of sepsis?Because of the many sites on the body from which sepsis can originate, there are a number of symptoms. The most prominent are:
Diagnosis and TestsHow is sepsis diagnosed?A person may have sepsis if he or she has:
Management and TreatmentHow is sepsis treated?The most important concern in sepsis is quick diagnosis and prompt treatment. Patients diagnosed with severe sepsis are usually placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital for special treatment. The doctor will first try to identify the source and the type of infection, obtain blood and urine tests and X-rays or CT scans, and give the patient antibiotics to treat the infection. (Note: Antibiotics are ineffective against infections caused by viruses.) IV (intravenous or in the vein) fluids are administered to prevent blood pressure from dropping too low. In some cases, the patient may need vasopressor medications (which tighten blood vessels) to reach an adequate blood pressure. And finally, if organ failures occur, the patient will receive the appropriate supportive care (for example, dialysis for kidney failure, mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure, etc.).
PreventionHow can I help prevent sepsis?
ResourcesAre there resources for people with sepsis?You might find the following information to be useful if you are interested in finding sepsis resources:
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