What is Sepsis?
While Sepsis is a severe life-threatening medical condition, it can also affect people with disabilities. According to the Centers for Diseases and Control (CDC), Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency. Sepsis happens when an infection you already have —in your skin, lungs, urinary tract, or somewhere else—triggers a chain reaction throughout your body. Without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Sepsis kills more than 250,000 people a year with 1.5 million diagnosed each year.
Signs and Symptoms
- An initial infection
- Fever
- High heart rate
- heavy breathing
Severe sepsis occurs during organ failure. signs include:
- decrease urination
- breathing problems
- body chills
- extreme weakness
Sepsis is caused by:
- Pneumonia
- Kidney infection
- Bloodstream infections.
if you work with an individual displaying any of these signs and symptoms, seek medical attention.
Resources
Sepsis Overview– Science Direct
What is Sepsis?– Sepsis Alliance