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Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's immune response to an infection becomes dysregulated and starts to cause harm to the body's own tissues and organs. It can lead to septic shock, which is a severe form of sepsis that can cause multiple organ failure and death.
Sepsis can be caused by any type of infection, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Common sources of infection include pneumonia, urinary tract infections, abdominal infections, and skin infections. People with weakened immune systems or underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease, are at a higher risk of developing sepsis.
Symptoms of sepsis can include fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, confusion or disorientation, decreased urine output, and decreased blood pressure. If sepsis progresses to septic shock, symptoms can include difficulty breathing, low urine output, blue or mottled skin, and a drop in blood pressure that can lead to organ failure and death.
Treatment for sepsis usually involves prompt administration of antibiotics or antifungal medications, along with supportive care such as intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and medications to support blood pressure. In severe cases of septic shock, mechanical ventilation and other advanced interventions may be necessary.
Prevention of sepsis involves taking steps to prevent infections, such as practicing good hand hygiene, getting vaccinated against infectious diseases, and seeking prompt medical attention if you have signs of an infection. If you have a weakened immune system or underlying medical conditions that put you at a higher risk of sepsis, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing your health and preventing infections.