Sepsis is a life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. Septic shock and multiple organ failure are common consequences of untreated sepsis, which can lead to death within just hours if it isn’t treated effectively. While sepsis can be fatal, it is also highly treatable if identified and treated quickly enough. If you are worried that you or someone you know might have sepsis, read on to learn how to identify symptoms of sepsis and how to get started with treatment as soon as possible.
A look at sepsis
Sepsis, also known as septicemia, is a potentially life-threatening complication that arises when your body’s immune system overreacts to an infection. Most commonly, sepsis occurs in response to bacterial infections (such as pneumonia or cellulitis), but can also be triggered by viral infections (like hepatitis C) or fungal infections (like candidiasis). It is most common in elderly people or those with weakened immune systems, but can occur at any age.
Diagnosing the disease
Like many diseases, sepsis is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms can resemble those of other conditions. One way to determine if you have sepsis is through a blood test that reveals elevated levels of C-reactive protein, which indicates inflammation throughout your body. Some doctors look for elevated lactate levels in your blood as well. If you think you might have sepsis, don’t hesitate get yourself to a hospital.
The warning signs
To find out whether your loved one is having an infection, look for these signs and symptoms. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care if your loved one is experiencing any of these signs (also known as SIRS criteria) for more than two hours: a temperature higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C); heart rate over 90 beats per minute; breathing over 20 breaths per minute; or a white blood cell count higher than 12,000 cells/mL.
Treatment options
Though sepsis can be life-threatening, early diagnosis and treatment allow for a higher rate of survival. Make sure you know what symptoms might indicate that you or someone you love has contracted sepsis. Early detection is crucial for improving your odds of survival, so if you suspect that someone may have contracted sepsis it’s important to contact medical professionals at Sepsis treatment hospital in Coimbatore as soon as possible.
Prevention methods
Taking a few precautions can drastically reduce your chances of getting sepsis. Good hand washing habits, keeping clean wounds covered with bandages, and staying up-to-date on vaccines are all easy ways to prevent an infection from turning into sepsis. In addition, if you’re immunocompromised or have some other chronic condition, consider adding supplemental doses of Vitamin C (800–1200mg per day) to your diet.
Recovery from sepsis
Prevention is key when it comes to sepsis, but if you or a loved one has been affected by sepsis, seek treatment immediately. While there’s no guaranteed way to completely avoid developing sepsis, there are several things you can do to lessen your chances of becoming a victim. First and foremost, follow medical advice carefully and don’t leave treatment without speaking with your doctor first. Additionally, be sure you know how to spot sepsis symptoms in yourself or those around you.
Sign in to leave a comment.