Sepsis: What is it and how does a widespread infection occur? | Welfare

Approximately 31 million people develop sepsis each year, and approximately 6 million of them die from the disease. pan american health organization (Pan American Health Organization). On World Sepsis Day, we spoke with Dr. Diana Fernandez, an intensivist at Cayetano Heredia Hospital and president of the Severe Infectious Diseases Section of the Peruvian Society of Intensive Care Medicine, to learn more.

“this septicemia is a medical condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection ends up attacking its own organs and tissues“, experts explain. “When these organs stop functioning and the patient’s life is in danger, we are faced with septic shock. This requires urgent specialized medical care, often provided in an intensive care unit,” he added.

What are the symptoms of sepsis?

most common symptoms sepsis or sepsis These symptoms include fever, chills, rapid heart rate and breathing, rash, confusion and lack of disorientation. Because several of these manifestations are common in other diseases, early diagnosis of sepsis can be challenging.

Fernandez explains We can begin to recognize sepsis when symptoms unrelated to infection occur. We are already experiencing it. “For example, if you have a urinary tract infection, you shouldn’t have difficulty breathing. This is a sign that the infection is spreading, that it’s entering the bloodstream and damaging other organs, thereby endangering your life,” he explains.

What organs does sepsis affect?

Sepsis can be caused by a variety of infections, whether of the lungs, gastrointestinal system, urinary tract, or skin. When the body reacts violently to these infections, damage to vital organs can occur. Examples include the brain, lungs, and kidneys, regardless of where the infection begins. Sepsis is often referred to as a “systemic infection.”

What is the treatment for sepsis?

The treatment method is septicemia Fernandez explained that at the medical center, they follow guidelines called “sepsis codes.” “When a patient with sepsis is seen in the emergency department, The main treatment is antibiotics, especially if the cause is a bacterial infection. However, Sepsis can also be caused by other pathogens, such as viruses and fungi.“, adds. The first priority in sepsis treatment is to stop the infection and give fluids and medications to help restore normal organ function.

How to prevent septic shock?

Experts recommend going to the emergency room as soon as you suspect an infection is getting worse. In addition, during the infection process, you should avoid self-medication and consult your doctor promptly to receive appropriate treatment.

Is there a cure for sepsis?

Yes, sepsis is treatable and preventable. “Not all patients who develop sepsis will die. This will depend on the timing of diagnosis and treatment. If patients with sepsis are treated promptly, the likelihood of survival is high,” Fernandez said.

If care is delayed, there is a risk of death, as well as prolonged hospitalization in critical areas with sequelae.

Is sepsis contagious?

No, sepsis is not contagious. “The infection is contagious. In fact, we are just emerging from a pandemic and few people know that severe COVID-19 infection can lead to sepsis,” Fernandez said.

Can any infection turn into sepsis?

Yes, any type of infection, whether caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that attack any organ in the body, can develop into sepsis.