Sepsis Awareness Month: Know the Signs and Act Fast

According to the CDC, “sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency.” Sepsis is not an infection by itself. It happens when the body’s response to an infection starts to cause harm.

The CDC says infections that lead to sepsis most often start in the lungs, urinary tract, skin or gastrointestinal tract. Bacterial infections cause most cases, but viral infections such as influenza and fungal infections can also lead to sepsis. The CDC estimates that “each year, about 1.7 million adults and more than 18,000 children in the U.S. develop sepsis.”

Anyone with an infection can develop sepsis, but the CDC notes that most people who develop it have at least one underlying medical condition or a recent hospitalization. Groups at higher risk include:

• Adults 65 or older and children younger than one
• People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer or kidney disease
• People with weakened immune systems
• People who have recently had a severe illness or been hospitalized
• Sepsis survivors
• People who are pregnant or recently gave birth

For families caring for a loved one on dialysis, receiving cancer treatment, or recently home from the hospital, it’s worth learning the warning signs and keeping them in mind.

The CDC lists these as possible signs and symptoms of sepsis:

• Clammy or sweaty skin
• Confusion or disorientation
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
• High heart rate or weak pulse
• Shortness of breath

These signs can look like other illnesses, which is part of what makes sepsis hard to spot. Pay special attention when they show up in someone who already has an infection, such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection or an infected wound, or who has recently been sick or in the hospital.

The CDC’s guidance is direct: “Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or your loved one has an infection that’s not getting better or is getting worse, act fast. Get medical care immediately.”

When you talk with a doctor or nurse, the CDC suggests asking a simple question: “Could this infection be leading to sepsis?” Saying the word out loud can help make sure the possibility is considered.

Because sepsis starts with an infection, preventing infections is one of the best ways to reduce risk. The CDC recommends:

• Get recommended vaccines. Vaccines can prevent or reduce the severity of some infections.
• Take care of chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer and kidney disease.
• Keep hands clean to help stop the spread of germs.
• Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered until they heal.
• Know the signs listed above, and act fast if an infection isn’t improving.

If you or a family member has a higher risk, ask your health care provider what steps make sense for your situation. This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your own doctor.

The CDC encourages people to talk about sepsis not only during Sepsis Awareness Month but all year round. Share the warning signs with family members, especially those who care for older adults, infants or people with chronic conditions. A conversation today could help someone recognize an emergency tomorrow.

Republic EMS is a licensed Texas EMS provider, and every one of our units is staffed with a Paramedic and an EMT. Whether in an emergency or during a scheduled transport, early recognition matters.