Word On Sepsis

Our grateful thanks to the UK Sepsis Trust (who you can reach through our Links page) for their contribution to our radio report which you can hear again via the audio player at the bottom of this page.    

What is Sepsis? It is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's extreme response to an infection. It occurs when an infection triggers a chain reaction throughout the body, potentially leading to organ damage and failure if untreated. It is not contagious and results from an overactive immune system response to an infection in the blood, urinary tract, lungs, or other areas.

Who is at Risk? Anyone can develop sepsis, but certain groups are at heightened risk:

• Infants under one year old and older adults over 75.
• People with weakened immune systems due to illnesses (e.g., cancer, diabetes, or HIV) or medications (e.g., chemotherapy or corticosteroids).
• Post-surgical patients or those with recent invasive procedures.
• Pregnant or postpartum women, especially those with infections like group A streptococcal.
• Individuals with chronic conditions, burns, or wounds, and those who use intravenous drugs or have catheters

Symptoms of Sepsis

In Adults:

• Rapid breathing or heart rate.
• Confusion or disorientation.
• Fever, shivering, or very cold sensation.
• Extreme pain or discomfort.
• A feeling they want to die.
• Clammy or discoloured skin.

In Children:

• Fast breathing or difficulty breathing.
• Unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking.
• Pale, mottled, or blueish skin.
• A rash that doesn’t fade under pressure of a glass tumbler.
• Vomiting, lack of appetite, or abnormal crying.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Sepsis?  Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know shows signs of sepsis, call 999 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Early treatment significantly improves survival rates. Watch for symptoms that seem severe or escalate quickly.

Treatment for Sepsis usually involves:

• Prompt antibiotics administered within one hour.
• Intensive care for severe cases, including ventilation or dialysis for organ support.
• In some cases, surgery may be required to remove infected tissue.

Long-Term Effects and Mortality Approximately 1 in 5 people with sepsis do not survive. Survivors may face long-term complications known as Post-Sepsis Syndrome (PSS). This can include physical symptoms like fatigue, pain, or recurring infections, as well as psychological issues like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recovery can take months or years, with ongoing medical support sometimes required.

By raising awareness of early signs and acting swiftly, sepsis fatalities and long-term consequences can be significantly reduced. For additional resources, organisations like the UK Sepsis Trust offer support for survivors and families. You can reach them through our Links Page. 

Listen to this weeks radio report