Sepsis

Overview

Older adults may only seem confused or very tired.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Confusion or very sleepy
• Fast breathing or heartbeat
• Clammy or mottled skin

Less common

• Fever or very low temperature
• Very little urine

When to get medical care

Causes

Infections.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: touch, dog, cat bites, scratches, or licks.
• Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

• Older adults
• Weak immune system
• Diabetes

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests:
• Cultures:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911 and say you think it's sepsis

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

• Vaccines
• Clean wounds
• Treat infections early

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to an infectious disease or ICU doctor.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until 2 days after vomiting and diarrhea stop, especially if you work with food, children, or patients.
• Wash hands well after using the toilet.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Fast treatment saves lives.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Sepsis