Most infections heal without causing serious problems. However, some infections can lead to sepsis, a very serious condition that affects how the body responds to infection.
Normally, your immune system fights germs and helps keep you healthy. But with sepsis, the immune system can start attacking healthy parts of the body.
Without prompt treatment, sepsis can harm important organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver. Any infection can lead to sepsis, including infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Some infections that more often lead to sepsis include:
- Lung infections, such as pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections, including infections of the kidneys or bladder
- Infections in the digestive system, such as the intestines or colon
- Bloodstream infections
- Infections from wounds or injuries
Sepsis Is a Medical Emergency
Sepsis has the potential to be life-threatening and requires prompt medical attention. It is typically treated in a hospital. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications and improve recovery. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sepsis affects about 1.7 million adults in the United States each year and causes about 350,000 deaths.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Some people have a greater chance of developing sepsis. Risk factors include:
- Being older than 65
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having certain cancers, especially blood cancers
- Receiving chemotherapy for cancer treatment
- Having an autoimmune disease
- Taking medicines that weaken the immune system, such as some HIV treatments
- Living with long-term conditions like diabetes or heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Having a recent infection and taking antibiotics
- Having a recent medical procedure or using medical devices such as IV lines or urinary catheters
Know the Warning Signs
Understanding the signs of sepsis can help you recognize when it may be time to seek medical care. The graphic below shows some common signs of sepsis. Other warning signs may include:
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Falling because of low blood pressure
- Feeling very thirsty or dehydrated
- Urinating less often than normal
- Having dry skin or a dry mouth
When Sepsis Gets Worse
In some cases, sepsis can progress to septic shock, a severe complication that causes a significant drop in blood pressure. This can reduce blood flow to the body's organs and requires intensive medical treatment.
Many people recover from mild sepsis with prompt treatment. However, septic shock is much more dangerous. It often requires treatment in a hospital intensive care unit (ICU).
If you think you or a loved one may have sepsis, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical care as soon as possible. Early treatment with IV fluids and antibiotics can help stop the infection, prevent septic shock, and improve recovery.
Learn More
To learn more about the warning signs of sepsis, visit sepsis.org.
