Understanding Sepsis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Sepsis is a severe medical condition resulting from the body's overwhelming immune response to infection, leading to organ dysfunction and potential failure.

Sepsis FAQ

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Why is sepsis a medical emergency?

Sepsis occurs when your immune system has a dangerous reaction to an infection. It causes extensive inflammation throughout your body that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and even death. Many different kinds of infections can trigger sepsis, which is a medical emergency. The quicker you receive treatment, the better your outcome will be.

How does sepsis start?

Sepsis can start with an infection by bacteria, a virus, fungi or protozoa. The initial infection can be anywhere in your body. It may start in your bladder, abdomen (tummy), chest, or even your skin. With sepsis, your body's immune reaction to the infection causes an inflammatory response, which makes things worse, not better.

Is sepsis the same as septicaemia?

Septicaemia is when bacteria enter the bloodstream and cause blood poisoning. This can trigger sepsis, but sepsis can also come from other infections. Sepsis is sometimes referred to as septicaemia; however, they are not the same thing. What are the symptoms of sepsis? The symptoms of sepsis vary. They can include:

Where can I find information about sepsis?

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Sepsis. Wikipedia's health care articles can be viewed offline with the Medical Wikipedia app. "Sepsis". MedlinePlus. U.S. National Library of Medicine.

How does sepsis affect the body?

The body’s reaction causes damage to its own tissues and organs. Sepsis can affect anyone, but people who are older, very young, pregnant or have other health problems are at higher risk. Common signs of sepsis include fever, fast heart rate, rapid breathing, confusion and body pain. It can lead to septic shock, multiple organ failure and death.

Sepsis References

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What Is Sepsis

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