Identify the
Causes and Symptoms
Causes
Sepsis always begins with a primary infection. Delayed detection or treatment of an infection like pneumonia, appendicitis, or even the flu may provoke an immune response leading to sepsis and septic shock. Other causes of infection can stem from invasive procedures such as open surgeries, insertion of catheters, and other procedures where bacteria can be introduced directly into the bloodstream.
Symptoms
The symptoms of sepsis may be somewhat different depending on the type of primary infection a patient experiences.
There are, however, universal signs to watch out for:
- Fever and/or chills
- Rapid heart rate and/or rapid breathing
- Altered mental status (ex. Confusion)
- Decreased urination
- Feeling extremely ill (ex. Severe pain or discomfort)
Fever and/or chills |
Severe pain or discomfort |
Shortness of breath |
Lower blood pressure |
Pale or discoloured skin |
Sleepy, altered mental status |
If you or a loved one is suffering from symptoms listed above, seek medical attention immediately (either by visiting a physician or dialing 9-1-1). Tell your healthcare provider “I am concerned about sepsis.”