Anyone can get an infection including bacterial, viral, or fungal—and almost any infection can lead to sepsis.
Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It happens when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.
Whenever you or someone you love has an infection, be aware of the symptoms of sepsis – and be ready to act fast!
Symptoms can include any one or more of these:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Shortness of breath
- High heart rate
- Fever, or shivering, or feeling very cold
- Extreme pain or discomfort
- Clammy or sweaty skin
Without fast treatment, sepsis can quickly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death.
If an infection isn’t improving — or is getting worse — act fast and seek medical care immediately.
Know the risks. Spot the signs. Act fast. It could be sepsis.
Get medical care immediately if you suspect sepsis or have an infection that’s not getting better or is getting worse.
Learn more about sepsis at www.cdc.gov/sepsis.
Katrina Hammel, MD, Internal Medicine