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What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s response to an infection.

What causes sepsis?

Sepsis is caused by the body’s extreme response to a bacterial or viral infection. The body’s immune system goes into overdrive and instead of fighting off the infection, it begins to attack the body.

Without timely treatment, tissue damage, organ failure and death can occur. It’s the third leading cause of death in the US behind heart disease and cancer.

What are the symptoms of sepsis?

For seniors, the most common sign of sepsis is that they become confused or disoriented. Any type of infection can cause sepsis but the most common infections that trigger sepsis among older people are pneumonia and urinary tract infections (UTI).

In general, these are symptoms of sepsis:

  • fever occurs after a recent infection or surgical procedure
  • fast heartbeat
  • low energy
  • shortness of breath
  • wound or incision is warm or red
  • increasing or unexplained pain
  • if you didn’t complete the full course of a prescribed antibiotic

If these symptoms occur, contact your primary care provider.

Who is most at risk for sepsis?

Almost any infection can lead to sepsis, but some people are at a higher risk including:

  • children younger than one
  • adults 65 and older
  • people with weakened immune systems
  • people with chronic conditions like diabetes, lung disease, cancer and
  • kidney disease
  • people who have had recent surgery or hospitalization within the last 30 days

The best way to prevent sepsis is to make sure that every wound be kept clean and checked for signs of infection.

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