Sepsis

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body's extreme reaction to an infection and often results in a life-threatening medical emergency. This reaction can be unpredictable and happen very quickly. Sepsis affects the whole body and can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death if left untreated.

Sepsis is the most common serious complication of infection, and many survivors can suffer long-term complications.

Learn more about sepsis, identifying signs and symptoms, and prevention in the video below!

What Causes Sepsis?
Signs and Symptoms
At Risk Populations
Treatment

Sepsis is the body's extreme reaction to an infection. Bacterial infections are one of the most common causes, but fungal, parasitic and viral infections can cause sepsis as well. Sepsis cannot be diagnosed using a single test. Physicians can clinically diagnose a patient with sepsis based on signs and symptoms.

Learn more about diagnosing sepsis here.

Common signs and symptoms include, but are not limited to;

Clammy or sweaty skin
Confusion or disorientation
Extreme pain or discomfort
Fever, shivering or feeling very cold
High heart rate or weak pulse
Shortness of breath

If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of sepsis, please seek medical attention

Anyone can develop sepsis, but the following groups may be at higher risk for developing sepsis and experiencing complications:

Adults 65 or older
Children younger than one
Women who are pregnant or postpartum
People who survived sepsis
People with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer and kidney disease
People with recent severe illness, surgery or hospitalization
People with weakened immune systems

Certain conditions may increase risk. Please click here for more information.

Treatment plans may can vary between each sepsis patient. Effective treatment can include: