Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can occur when the body’s response to an infection goes awry. It can quickly progress to severe sepsis or septic shock, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Sepsis can occur in people of all ages, but it is more common in older adults and those with weakened immune systems. In this answer, we will discuss the symptoms of sepsis, including its early signs, later symptoms, and complications.
Early Signs of Sepsis
The early signs of sepsis can be easy to miss, as they are similar to those of other conditions. However, it is crucial to recognize them to receive prompt treatment, which can improve the chances of recovery. The early signs of sepsis include:
Fever or low body temperature: Sepsis can cause a fever, but it can also cause a low body temperature, especially in older adults or people with weakened immune systems.
Rapid heartbeat or breathing: Sepsis can cause the heart to beat faster than usual, and it can also cause rapid breathing or shortness of breath.
Confusion or disorientation: Sepsis can affect brain function, leading to confusion, slurred speech, or disorientation.
Chills or shivering: Sepsis can cause chills or shivering, even when the body temperature is high.
Sweating: Sepsis can cause profuse sweating, especially at night.
Fatigue or weakness: Sepsis can cause extreme fatigue or weakness, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
Later Symptoms of Sepsis
If sepsis is not treated promptly, it can progress to severe sepsis or septic shock, which are more severe forms of the condition. The symptoms of severe sepsis or septic shock include:
Low blood pressure: Severe sepsis or septic shock can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
Organ dysfunction: Severe sepsis or septic shock can affect the function of multiple organs, including the kidneys, liver, and lungs, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, or jaundice.
Skin rash or discoloration: Severe sepsis or septic shock can cause a skin rash or discoloration, especially on the hands or feet.
Reduced urine output: Severe sepsis or septic shock can cause a decrease in urine output, indicating kidney dysfunction.
Complications of Sepsis
Sepsis can lead to complications if not treated promptly, which can affect the long-term health and quality of life. The complications of sepsis include:
Septic shock: Septic shock is a severe form of sepsis that can cause multiple organ failure, leading to a high risk of death.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): ARDS is a condition that causes fluid to build up in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
Blood clots: Sepsis can increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
Post-sepsis syndrome: Post-sepsis syndrome is a condition that can occur after sepsis, causing fatigue, muscle weakness, or difficulty concentrating.
In conclusion, sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can occur when the body’s response to an infection goes awry. Its symptoms can be easy to miss, but it is crucial to recognize them to receive prompt treatment, which can improve the chances of recovery. The early signs of sepsis include fever or low body temperature, rapid heartbeat or breathing, confusion or disorientation, chills or shivering, sweating, and fatigue or weakness. If sepsis is not treated promptly, it can progress to severe sepsis or septic shock, which are more severe forms of the condition. The symptoms of severe sepsis or septic shock include low blood pressure, organ dysfunction, skin rash or discoloration, and reduced urine output. Sepsis can also lead to complications such as septic shock, ARDS, blood clots, or post-sepsis syndrome, which can affect the long-term health and quality of life.
