How to recognize early signs of sepsis and when to seek medical attention, according to specialists.
Sepsis is one of the most dangerous and at the same time most ignored medical emergencies. It can start with a common infection and, within hours, become a deadly threat. Many people believe that it is just a strong infection, but in reality it is an uncontrolled reaction of the immune system that begins to damage the body’s own organs.
When not caught early, sepsis can lead to failure of vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, lungs, and brain.
The most dangerous thing is that it advances very quickly. A person may feel relatively fine in the morning and be fighting for their life that same night.
What is sepsis really?
Sepsis is not the infection itself, but the body’s overreaction to an infection.
The immune system, instead of attacking only bacteria or viruses, begins to attack the tissues and organs themselves. This causes:
- Dangerous drop in blood pressure
- Lack of oxygen to the organs
- Generalized inflammation
- Blood vessel damage
- Risk of shock and death
If not treated immediately, the body goes into septic shock, a condition with a very high mortality rate.
People at higher risk
Although sepsis can affect anyone, some people are much more vulnerable:
- Over 65 years of age
- People with diabetes
- Those who have had recent surgeries
- People with low defenses (chemotherapy, HIV, use of corticosteroids)
- People with chronic diseases (kidney, liver, lungs)
- Men (have a higher mortality rate than women)
If you or someone close to you belongs to these groups, it’s vital to know the signs.
The 5 Early Signs of Sepsis
1. Extreme temperature changes
It may appear:
- High fever (over 38.5°C)
- Or the opposite: very low temperature (less than 36 °C)
Intense chills, cold sweat or a feeling of freezing are warning signs.
2. Rapid heart rate and breathing
- Over 90 beats per minute at rest
- More than 20 breaths per minute
The person feels short of breath or that his or her heart is beating too hard without straining.
3. Sudden confusion
The person:
- He gets disoriented
- It does not recognize places or people
- Says incoherent things
This happens because the brain isn’t getting enough oxygen.
4. Severe pain or extreme discomfort
It’s not a simple “I feel bad.”
It is a deep feeling that something is not right:
pain in the chest, abdomen or a general feeling of physical collapse.
5. Skin changes
- Red or purple spots that don’t go away when you press
- Cold, clammy skin
- Pale or bluish areas
- Fingers or lips that turn blue
This indicates poor circulation and lack of oxygen in the tissues.
The most dangerous sign: drop in blood pressure
If the pressure drops too low, the body goes into septic shock.
This can cause:
- Severe dizziness
- Extreme weakness
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
When this happens, the probability of death skyrockets.
Every hour without treatment reduces the chances of survival.
What to do if you suspect sepsis
- Don’t wait
- Don’t minimize symptoms
- Seek immediate medical attention
Tell health care personnel clearly:
“I have symptoms of infection and I’m worried it’s sepsis.”
That activates urgent medical protocols.
Early treatment includes:
- Intravenous antibiotics
- Serums to stabilize pressure
- Oxygen
- Medication to support vital organs
The earlier you start, the better the chances of saving your life.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Sepsis
1. Prevent infections
- Washing hands
- Get vaccinated
- Keeping wounds clean
- Managing Diabetes
2. Treat infections early
Do not ignore:
- Urinary tract infections
- Pneumonia
- Infected wounds
- Dental pain
3. Listen to the body
If something feels different, don’t ignore it.
4. Be active in hospitals
Asks, observes and demands hygiene in procedures.
Tips and recommendations
- Never underestimate a fever accompanied by weakness or confusion
- An infection that gets worse quickly should always be evaluated
- In older adults, sudden confusion is almost never “normal”
- Sepsis doesn’t wait: every hour counts
Sepsis is silent, rapid, and deadly, but it is also treatable if caught early. Recognizing its signs can make the difference between life and death. Listen to your body and act without delay.
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