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By Dr. Jaisingh Rajput, MD – Physician and Specialist

Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body’s response to an infection spirals out of control, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and death if not treated promptly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sepsis affects at least 1.7 million Americans annually, causing over 350,000 deaths each year.

Early recognition and treatment can save lives, making it essential to understand the warning signs and risk factors of this deadly condition.

What Causes Sepsis?

Sepsis occurs when the body’s immune system, instead of fighting an infection, triggers widespread inflammation. It can result from infections such as:

• Pneumonia (lung infections)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Skin infections, including cellulitis
• Infected wounds, including surgical wounds
• Bloodstream infections (bacteremia)

Anyone can develop sepsis, but certain groups are at higher risk, including older adults (65+) and infants; people with weakened immune systems (cancer, diabetes, HIV/AIDS); hospitalized or post-surgical patients and people with chronic diseases (kidney disease, lung disease, heart failure).

Recognizing the Early Symptoms

Sepsis can progress rapidly. The CDC and the Surviving Sepsis Campaign recommend watching for the following key warning signs using the acronym SEPSIS:

• S – Shivering, fever, or very low temperature
• E – Extreme pain or discomfort (feels like the worst pain ever)
• P – Pale or discolored skin (bluish or mottled appearance)
• S – Sleepiness, confusion, or difficulty waking up
• I – Increased heart rate and rapid breathing
• S – Severe shortness of breath or low blood pressure

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you or a loved one experience any of the above symptoms, especially after an infection or surgery, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or going to the nearest emergency room. Delaying treatment increases the risk of septic shock, organ failure and death.

Latest Guidelines for Diagnosis, Treatment

According to the 2023 Surviving Sepsis Campaign and CDC Guidelines, early intervention is crucial:

• Early Identification (First Hour);
• Check for signs of infection plus organ dysfunction (low blood pressure, altered mental state, difficulty breathing);
• Perform blood cultures and tests to detect bacteria in the bloodstream;
• Sepsis Six-Bundle (Golden Hour Treatment);
• Administer IV antibiotics immediately;
• Give fluids rapidly (IV fluids) to stabilize blood pressure;
• Measure lactate levels to assess severity;
• Provide oxygen or ventilation support if needed;
• Monitor urine output to assess kidney function;
• Identify and treat the source of infection (e.g., abscess drainage, wound care);
• Septic Shock Management;
• If blood pressure remains low despite fluids, vasopressors (medications to raise BP) are used; and
• ICU care may be required for organ support, dialysis, or ventilators.

Preventing Sepsis: Key Recommendations

• Get Vaccinated: Stay up to date on pneumonia, flu, COVID-19, and meningitis vaccines.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands frequently and keep wounds clean.
• Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease under control.
• Recognize Infections Early: Seek medical help for persistent fevers, worsening infections, or unexplained symptoms.

Sepsis is a silent killer that can strike anyone. Recognizing early warning signs and seeking immediate medical care is the key to survival. If you or a loved one have an infection and start feeling unusually unwell, weak, or confused, don’t wait—call 911 or go to the hospital immediately.

Early action saves lives. Be aware, stay informed, and protect yourself from sepsis.

Dr. Jaisingh Rajput is a physician specializing in hospital medicine and public health. He is committed to educating the public about life-threatening conditions like sepsis to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.

Dr. Jaisingh Rajput is a physician specializing in hospital medicine and public health. He is dedicated to raising awareness about the connection between stress, immunity, and chronic diseases.