April 22, 2019
Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is life-threatening, and without treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have in your skin, lungs, urinary tract or somewhere else triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of possible sepsis can include any one or a combination of the following:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Shortness of breath
- High heart rate
- Fever, shivering or feeling very cold
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Clammy or sweaty skin
Sepsis is a medical emergency and needs to be treated quickly. If you or a loved one suspects sepsis or has an infection that is not getting better or is getting worse, ask your doctor or nurse "could this infection be leading to sepsis?"