How much do you know about sepsis?
September is Sepsis Awareness Month and since this is a serious condition that affects millions every year, I think we should all know more about it...
Spotting symptoms early could prevent the body from entering septic shock, and could save a life. The Sepsis Alliance recommends the acronym TIME:
T – Temperature higher or lower. When you have an infection, your body’s temperature usually rises as it tries to fight off the bug causing the infection. Interestingly, some people see their body temperature go down (hypothermia) instead of up. This is why any change, high or low, can be a sign of sepsis.
I – Infection. The person may have signs and symptoms of an infection. Sometimes however, they may have an infection and not know it, and not have any symptoms. Keep this in mind especially if they have recently had surgery or an invasive medical procedure, a break in their skin, or been exposed to someone who is ill.
M – Mental decline (confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse). Some people, especially the elderly, may not show typical signs of infection. Instead, they may show a sudden change in mental status, becoming confused, or a worsening of dementia and confusion. Sleepiness, often severe, is also a common complaint.
E – Extremely ill (severe pain or discomfort, shortness of breath). Many sepsis survivors have said that when they were ill, it was the worst they ever felt. It was the worst sore throat, worst abdominal pain, or they felt that they were going to die.
➡️ For every hour treatment is delayed, the risk of death increases by as much as 8%.
