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Sepsis (Blood Poisoning)

A life-threatening medical emergency in which the body's dysregulated response to infection leads to organ damage.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Sepsis (Blood Poisoning)?

Sepsis is a life-threatening syndrome defined by dysregulated inflammatory response of the body to infection damaging tissues and organs. Urinary tract, lung, abdominal, and blood infections are the most common sources.

Septic shock is the most severe form of sepsis with collapse of blood pressure and seriously impaired organ perfusion; mortality is over 40%. Early diagnosis and the '1-hour bundle' (fluid, antibiotics, cultures) decisively affect survival.

Sepsis, causing more than 11 million deaths worldwide per year, is the leading cause of intensive care deaths. Individuals can develop sepsis regardless of prior health status; however, the elderly, immunocompromised, and those with chronic illness are at higher risk.

Symptoms

High fever or hypothermia
Rapid breathing (>22/minute)
Rapid heartbeat
Altered consciousness, confusion
Low blood pressure
Decreased urine output
Skin mottling and coldness (septic shock)

Risk Factors

Age over 65 or very young children
Immune system suppression
Chronic diseases (diabetes, kidney failure, cancer)
Invasive procedures and ICU admission
Untreated infections
Postoperative period
Intravascular catheter and urinary catheter

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Infection + altered consciousness + low blood pressure = EMERGENCY
  • If rapid breathing, heart rate increase, and fever are together
  • Decreased urine output and skin color change
  • Sudden deterioration after any infection
  • In suspected sepsis, the patient may not be able to go to a clinic alone — emergency should be called

Treatment Methods

01
Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotic (must be started within the first 1 hour)
02
Crystalloid fluid resuscitation (30 mL/kg bolus)
03
Blood culture and source control of infection
04
Vasopressors (norepinephrine — if hypotension persists)
05
Intensive care monitoring and organ support therapies
06
Implementation of sepsis 'bundle' protocol (Surviving Sepsis Campaign)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.