Sepsis

Sepsis is a very serious condition. It happens when your body responds with widespread inflammation to a severe infection, usually caused by bacteria. Sometimes it may be caused by a virus. Sepsis can be deadly. Blood pressure may drop. The lungs, liver, and kidneys may start to fail. Sepsis is a medical emergency. If someone has symptoms of sepsis, call 911 right away.

Risk factors

Those most at risk for sepsis are:

• Infants or older adults

• People who have an illness that weakens their immune system, such as cancer, AIDS, or diabetes

• People being treated with chemotherapy medicines, high-dose steroids, or radiation, which weaken the immune system

• People who have had an organ transplant

• People with long-term (chronic) lung, kidney, liver, or heart disease

• People with a very severe infection, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a urinary tract infection

When to call 911

Sepsis is a medical emergency. Call 911 right away if you have a fever with any of these symptoms:

• Chills and shaking

• Fast heartbeat and breathing

• Trouble breathing

• Severe nausea or uncontrolled vomiting

• Confusion, disorientation, drowsiness, or dizziness

• Decreased urination

• Severe pain, including in the back or joints 

What to expect in the emergency room

To treat sepsis, antibiotics and fluids may by given through an intravenous (IV) line.

• Blood and urine tests are done to look for bacteria. They also check for organ failure.

• Blood, urine, or sputum cultures may be taken. The samples are sent to a lab. They are placed in a special container. Any bacteria should grow in 24 to 48 hours.

• X-rays or other imaging tests may be done.

A person with sepsis will be admitted to the hospital and treated with antibiotics. Treatment will also include oxygen and IV (intravenous) fluids and other medicines as needed. The person will be watched very closely, usually in the intensive care unit (ICU).