Sepsis is a serious condition that can happen when your body has an extreme response to an infection. It’s important to know about sepsis because it can affect any person of any age, from any type of infection.
When you get an infection, like a cut that gets red and swollen, your body fights it off. Sometimes, your body’s response to the infection can go into overdrive. This means your immune system, which usually protects you, starts to attack your own body. If not treated quickly, sepsis can be very dangerous.
How Do People Get Sepsis?
Sepsis can start from any kind of infection. It could be from a small cut, a cold or even pneumonia. In hospitals, people might get infections from surgeries, catheters or medical procedures.
Signs of Sepsis
When it comes to sepsis, remember, “It’s about TIME.”
- T – Temperature – higher or lower than normal
- I – Infection – signs or symptoms of infection
- M – Mental Decline – confused, sleepy and difficult to rouse
- E – Extremely Ill – severe pain, discomfort and shortness of breath
If you notice any of these signs, especially if you or someone you know has an infection, it’s important to tell a doctor or nurse right away.
How is Sepsis Treated?
Doctors treat sepsis with antibiotics, which are medicines that kill bacteria. They might also give fluids through an IV to help keep your blood pressure up and make sure your organs keep working.
Preventing Sepsis
While there is no way to completely prevent the possibility of sepsis, there are many ways to reduce your risk, including:
- Get vaccinated. Protect yourself against the flu, pneumonia and other infections that could lead to sepsis.
- Be thorough. Properly clean and treat scrapes and wounds and practice good hygiene ( hand washing, bathing regularly).
- Be vigilant. If you have an infection, look for signs like fever, chills, rapid breathing, confusion and disorientation.
Stay Informed
Sepsis is important to understand because it can happen to anyone, but it’s especially common in hospitals where people are already sick or recovering from surgery. Knowing the signs and how to prevent it can help keep you and your loved ones safe. Remember, if you feel like something is wrong, tell the hospital staff you are concerned about sepsis.