Blood Infections
Sepsis Symptoms:
Because it can begin in different parts of your body, sepsis can have many different symptoms. The first signs may include rapid breathing and confusion. Other common symptoms include:
- Fever and chills
- Very low body temperature
- Peeing less than usual
- Fast heartbeat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Blotchy or discolored skin
- Sweating or clammy skin
- Severe pain
(Blood Infections) Sepsis Diagnosis
Your doctor will do a physical exam and run tests to look for things like:
- Bacteria in your blood or other body fluids
- Signs of infection on an X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound
- A high or low white blood cell count
- A low platelet count
- Low blood pressure
- Too much acid in your blood (acidosis)
- Altered kidney or liver function
(Blood Infections) Sepsis Treatment
The most important concern in treating sepsis is quickly diagnosing it. The earlier it's caught, the better your outcome will be. Once sepsis is diagnosed, you'll likely be admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for special treatment. The doctors will work to stabilize your breathing and heart functions while also treating the infection.
Treatment usually includes:
- Antibiotics to fight the infection
- Medications to increase your blood pressure
- Insulin to stabilize your blood sugar
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Pain relievers
Severe cases may call for large amounts of IV fluids and support for failing organs, such as dialysis for kidney failure or mechanical ventilation for respiratory distress.