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Sepsis
Emergency
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition in which the body has an extreme response to an infection, leading to widespread inflammation, impaired blood flow, and organ dysfunction. It can progress rapidly and may cause changes in blood pressure, breathing, mental status, kidney function, or other vital organ functions. Sepsis requires urgent medical assessment and treatment because severe cases can progress to septic shock and multiple-organ failure.
Body System
Blood & Immune System
Emergency Medical Attention
Sepsis is a medical emergency requiring immediate assessment and treatment. Seek emergency medical attention for suspected infection accompanied by confusion, very rapid breathing, severe weakness, fainting, very low blood pressure, rapidly worsening illness, bluish or mottled skin, or other signs of poor circulation or organ dysfunction. Do not delay emergency care while waiting for symptoms to become more severe.
Symptoms
4
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition in which the body has an extreme response to an infection, leading to widespread inflammation, impaired blood flow, and organ dysfunction. It can progress rapidly and may cause changes in blood pressure, breathing, mental status, kidney function, or other vital organ functions. Sepsis requires urgent medical assessment and treatment because severe cases can progress to septic shock and multiple-organ failure.
Symptoms 4
Confusion
Fatigue
Fever
Frequent Sweating
Causes 3
Sepsis develops when an infection triggers an extreme and dysregulated immune response that damages the body rather than remaining limited to the original site of infection. Bacterial infections are common causes, but viral, fungal, and other infections can also lead to sepsis. Common sources include infections of the lungs, urinary tract, abdomen, bloodstream, skin, or other tissues.
Autoimmune Disorder
Chronic Disease
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk is higher in people with severe or untreated infections, chronic medical conditions, weakened immunity, advanced age or very young age, recent hospitalization or surgery, invasive medical devices, or conditions requiring prolonged medical care. People with conditions that impair the body’s ability to fight infection or maintain normal organ function may also have a higher risk of severe sepsis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis of sepsis is based on the overall clinical picture, evidence of infection, and signs of organ dysfunction. Healthcare professionals may assess vital signs, mental status, urine output, blood oxygenation, and other indicators of organ function. Blood tests, blood cultures, urine tests, imaging, and tests from suspected sites of infection may be used to identify the source and determine the severity of illness.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Sepsis cannot always be prevented, but reducing infections and treating infections promptly can lower risk
Recommended measures include staying up to date with appropriate vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene, caring for wounds properly, following infection-control measures, and seeking medical attention for serious or worsening infections
Managing chronic medical conditions and following prescribed treatment can also reduce vulnerability to severe infection
Prevention Guidance
Sepsis cannot always be prevented, but reducing infections and treating infections promptly can lower risk. Recommended measures include staying up to date with appropriate vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene, caring for wounds properly, following infection-control measures, and seeking medical attention for serious or worsening infections. Managing chronic medical conditions and following prescribed treatment can also reduce vulnerability to severe infection.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fluids
Help maintain hydration.
Protein Rich Foods
Support recovery and healing.
Fresh Fruits
Provide essential nutrients.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen dehydration.
Highly Processed Foods
Poor nutritional value.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infection.
Severe bacterial, viral or fungal infections can trigger it.
Fever, rapid heartbeat and confusion may occur.
Yes, immediate medical attention is required.
Prompt treatment of infections reduces risk.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.