Understanding Sepsis: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention Tips

You've probably heard of sepsis, but do you really understand how serious it can be? Sepsis is a silent killer, a life-threatening medical emergency that arises when the body overreacts to an infection.

It's far more common than many people realize, affecting at least 1.7 million adults in America every single year. In a nutshell, sepsis is common, deadly, and expensive.

This blog post will help you understand what sepsis is, how important it is to recognize its symptoms early, and how to prevent it.

Understanding Sepsis

Sepsis occurs when an infection you already have in your skin, lungs, urinary tract, or elsewhere, triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. It causes your body's immune system to go into overdrive in response to the infection.

Instead of fighting off the invading bacteria, viruses, or fungi, this excessive immune response can cause tissue damage and harm organs. 

If left unchecked, sepsis can rapidly progress to septic shock, organ failure, and death. Septic shock is a life-threatening condition characterized by a dramatic drop in blood pressure, potentially resulting in multiple organ failure and death.

The death rate from septic shock is about 40%. The speed at which sepsis can escalate makes it a true medical emergency.

Sepsis Symptoms

One of the trickiest aspects of sepsis is recognizing and diagnosing its symptoms, as they're often subtle and easily mistaken for other illnesses. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Since early intervention is critical for sepsis, it is vital to be aware of what these symptoms include and seek medical attention immediately if you suspect sepsis.

Fever or Hypothermia 

A high body temperature (fever) is common with infections, but sepsis can also cause hypothermia. Hypothermia is a dangerously low body temperature that's especially concerning in newborns, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Fast Heart Rate

You might notice your heart pounding or beating quickly, even when you are at rest. A fast pulse of over 110 beats per minute can be a warning sign of sepsis.

Rapid Breathing

As the body struggles to get more oxygen, sepsis often causes rapid and shallow breathing. If you or someone you know is experiencing rapid breathing along with other sepsis symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Confusion or Disorientation

Sepsis can impact mental clarity, making it difficult to think straight. This symptom is particularly noticeable in older adults and can be easily mistaken for other age-related conditions. Be especially wary with older adults who are normally very sharp mentally (no dementia) if they have an infection and start showing signs of confusion. 

Clammy, Sweaty Skin

Changes in skin appearance can signal sepsis. Your skin might feel clammy or sweaty, or appear pale or mottled, indicating poor blood flow.

In some cases, small, dark-red spots, known as petechiae, might appear due to septicemia, which is blood poisoning.

Extreme Pain or Discomfort

Sepsis can cause extreme pain, especially in the initial infection. If you experience sudden, intense pain that is out of proportion to any injury, it is essential to seek medical attention to rule out sepsis.

Low Urine Output

Decreased urination can be a sign of sepsis as it can impact kidney function. If you notice a significant decrease in your urine output, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the cause.

The Sepsis Alliance uses the mnemonic T.I.M.E. to describe sepsis symptoms. T = Temperature (high or low), I = Infection (any kind), M = Mental decline/confusion, and E = Extreme Illness. If in doubt, ask yourself, "Could it be sepsis?"

Blood Infections and Sepsis

Bacteremia, the medical term for a blood infection, occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream. This can result from a variety of situations, ranging from a minor cut that becomes infected to a more severe infection like pneumonia.

The presence of bacterial infections in the blood allows them to spread quickly throughout the body, making blood infections particularly dangerous. Without prompt antibiotic treatment, they are a frequent precursor to sepsis.

Who is at Risk?

While sepsis can develop in anyone from any infection, certain groups are more susceptible to this life-threatening condition.

Recognizing these risk factors can help you and your loved ones take necessary precautions and seek prompt medical attention when needed.

• Older Adults (over 65 years old). Older adults are more prone to bacteremia, with 40% to 50% of cases occurring in this age group. As we age, our immune defenses naturally weaken, making it harder to fight infections and increasing the risk of sepsis.
• Infants and Children. Young children have developing immune systems that make them more vulnerable to infections, including those that can lead to sepsis. Research has shown the concerning prevalence of sepsis in young adults and children in the United States.
• People with Weakened Immune Systems. Certain medical conditions like HIV, cancer, or treatments that suppress the immune system make it more challenging to fight infections, putting you at a higher risk of sepsis. It is crucial if you have a weakened immune system to be vigilant about potential infection symptoms and seek medical help early.
• People with Chronic illnesses. Chronic illnesses like diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease, and Toxic Shock Syndrome can compromise immune function and increase susceptibility to infections and sepsis. Effectively managing these conditions is vital for reducing sepsis risk.
• Hospitalized Individuals. Hospitals, while essential for medical care, can harbor bacteria, putting people recovering from surgery or illness at a higher risk of developing infections, including infections that can lead to sepsis. The CDC states that a concerning 1 in 3 hospital deaths involve sepsis, highlighting the heightened risk in healthcare settings.

The Financial Toll of Sepsis Diagnosed

Beyond the devastating health implications, sepsis also places a substantial financial burden on the healthcare system.

It is a leading cause of hospitalization in the United States, with acute care for sepsis, including skilled nursing, costing a staggering $62 billion annually.

A significant portion of these costs is attributed to readmissions after initial sepsis treatment, accounting for over $3.5 billion yearly.

These figures highlight the substantial long-term health and economic consequences associated with this serious condition.

Preventing Sepsis 6 Ways

Preventing sepsis primarily revolves around one crucial step: avoiding infections in the first place. Infection prevention is sepsis prevention.

Taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of infections can significantly decrease your chances of developing sepsis.

1. Practice Good Hygiene. Frequently wash your hands thoroughly, especially before eating or preparing food, after using the bathroom, and after contact with someone who is sick.

Handwashing is a simple yet incredibly effective way to combat the spread of infection.

2. Clean and Care for Wounds Properly. Even a minor cut can act as an entry point for pathogenic bacteria, so promptly clean and cover all wounds. Change bandages regularly until the wound is fully healed.

3. Keep Your Immune System Strong. Besides the essential vitamins C and vitamin D, consider boosting your immune system with additional support.

Add probiotics, (found in yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or supplements), zinc (essential for immune cell function), and curcumin (a powerful antioxidant) to your supplement regimen. Make sleep and stress management a priority.

4. Manage Chronic Illnesses. Manage chronic illnesses such as diabetes or lung disease well to reduce the risk of infection and sepsis. For example, proper foot care is needed to prevent diabetic ulcers from becoming infected. 

Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance, diligently take prescribed medications, attend regular checkups, and employ natural and lifestyle strategies to manage chronic conditions effectively.

5. Consider D-mannose for Urinary Tract Infections. D-mannose is a naturally occurring sugar that helps resolve urinary tract infections (UTIs) by preventing bacteria, especially Escherichia coli (E. coli), from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.

Instead of sticking to the bladder lining and spreading the infection, the E. coli bind to the D-mannose molecules and are flushed out during urination.

This helps reduce bacterial load, thereby alleviating symptoms of UTIs from potentially escalating to sepsis, as UTIs are a significant cause of sepsis. Studies suggest D-mannose may be effective as a preventive measure and a complementary treatment for UTIs.

6. Early Diagnosis and Treatment. The faster an infection is addressed, the less likely it is to escalate into full-blown sepsis.

If you notice any signs of infection, such as fever, redness, swelling, or pus, seek immediate medical attention to prevent complications like sepsis.

Early intervention can make a life-saving difference!

Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Sepsis

The rise of antibiotic resistant pathogens poses a significant challenge in treating sepsis. Some bacteria have developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics, rendering these medications less effective in fighting infections.

This resistance makes sepsis more difficult to treat, highlighting the importance of using antibiotics responsibly to avoid further fueling the development of resistant strains.

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics contributes to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Recovering from Sepsis

For those who survive sepsis, the journey to recovery can be lengthy and challenging. Approximately half of sepsis survivors experience post-sepsis syndrome (PSS), that can persist long after the initial infection is treated.

• Fatigue and Weakness. Persistent fatigue is common among sepsis survivors, often making everyday activities challenging. Simple tasks such as walking or showering can feel exhausting. This pervasive fatigue can significantly impact quality of life and require ongoing management.
• Muscle and Joint Pain. Sepsis can leave lasting effects on the musculoskeletal system, causing lingering muscle aches and joint stiffness. These aches and stiffness can hinder mobility and make it difficult to engage in normal daily activities.
• Cognitive Concerns. PSS can impact cognitive function, causing problems with concentration, memory, and mental clarity. Struggling to focus on work, complete tasks, or remember things can be frustrating and disruptive to daily life.
• Sleep Problems. Disturbed sleep is another common challenge for sepsis survivors, who may experience insomnia or nightmares. These sleep disturbances can exacerbate other PSS symptoms.
• Emotional and Mental Health Issues. Overcoming a life-threatening illness like sepsis can have a profound impact on mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and flashbacks are not uncommon among survivors. It is essential to address these emotional and mental health challenges and seek professional support to facilitate healing and recovery.

Recovering from sepsis can be brutal. It's a very slow process that requires patience and support. It can take up to 18 months for severe sepsis patients to start feeling like themselves again.

Rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial for regaining strength, cognitive function, and emotional well-being. Connecting with other survivors through support groups can provide a sense of community and understanding during the recovery journey.

Conclusion

Sepsis, a silent threat that arises from an uncontrolled infection, deserves far more awareness.

It's important to recognize the diverse range of sepsis symptoms, understand risk factors, and emphasize prevention and prompt treatment. Sepsis is a serious medical condition with long-lasting consequences for those who survive it.

In the face of infection, always ask, "Could this be sepsis?" so you get an early diagnosis and best chance of recovery!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction and goes wild throughout your body.

What should I do if I think someone has sepsis?

If you suspect sepsis or notice any signs of infection, such as fever, redness, swelling, or pus, seek immediate medical attention. Early intervention can make a life-saving difference!

Are some people at more risk of developing sepsis?

Older adults, infants and younger children, people with weakened immune systems or have a chronic illness such as diabetes, and those in the hospital are more at risk to develop sepsis.

Can you get sepsis more than once?

Yes! Not only can you get it more than once but people who have had sepsis are more likely to get it again.