An infection does not always stay in one part of the body. In some cases, the body’s response to an infection can become dangerous and lead to sepsis, a life-threatening medical emergency. September is Sepsis Awareness Month, with World Sepsis Day observed on Sept. 13, providing an opportunity to learn what sepsis looks like and when an infection needs immediate medical attention.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 1.7 million adults and more than 18,000 children in the United States develop sepsis each year. At least 350,000 adults who develop sepsis die during their hospital stay or are discharged to hospice. Because sepsis can progress quickly, recognizing the signs and getting medical care as soon as possible can make an important difference.
What Is Sepsis?
Sepsis occurs when the body’s extreme response to an infection begins to damage its own tissues and organs. Almost any infection can lead to sepsis, although infections that lead to sepsis most often begin in the lungs, urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, or skin, according to the CDC. Without prompt treatment, sepsis can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
Anyone can develop sepsis, but some people have a higher risk, including older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, and people who have recently been hospitalized. People receiving certain cancer treatments can also be more vulnerable to infections that may lead to sepsis.
Know the Signs
Sepsis can look different from one person to another, but there are several warning signs to watch for when someone has an infection. The CDC lists symptoms that can include:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Shortness of breath
- Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
- A fast heart rate or weak pulse
- Clammy or sweaty skin
- Extreme pain or discomfort
A person does not need to have every symptom for sepsis to be a concern. If an infection is getting worse instead of better and new or unusual symptoms develop, it is important to seek medical care rather than waiting to see if the symptoms go away.
Act Quickly
Sepsis requires immediate medical evaluation and treatment. If you or someone you care for has an infection that is worsening or not improving, the CDC recommends seeking medical care immediately. You can also tell the healthcare provider that you are concerned about sepsis and ask whether the infection could be leading to sepsis.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the illness, but healthcare providers may use tests to look for infection or organ damage and begin treatment, including antibiotics when appropriate. The CDC emphasizes that people who might have sepsis should be evaluated and treated as soon as possible.
Lower Your Risk
Not every infection will lead to sepsis, but preventing infections and treating them early can help reduce the risk. The CDC recommends staying up to date on recommended vaccines, practicing good hand hygiene, and keeping cuts and wounds clean and covered while they heal. Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and kidney disease is also important because these conditions can increase the risk of sepsis.
For patients and families, one of the most important steps is knowing when an infection may be becoming something more serious. If you notice an infection worsening with symptoms such as confusion, difficulty breathing, extreme pain, fever or chills, or clammy skin, do not wait to seek medical care. Recognizing sepsis early and acting quickly can help patients get the treatment they need.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso, our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
