Sepsis (Septicemia)
Sepsis, also known as systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is an infection of the bloodstream that results when large amounts of pathogens such as bacteria overwhelm the white blood cells in the blood. Sepsis is a life threatening condition because blood flow circulation can spread the infection to any part of the body.
Sepsis Symptoms
Some early symptoms of sepsis may include;
- Fever
- Hyperventilation
- Irregular heartbeat
- Altered mood
These conditions may be followed by more serious symptoms which include;
- Drop in blood pressure
- Shock
- Major organs shutdown
- Bodily systems cease proper functioning
- Death (If sepsis becomes severe, infection can spread to the heart or brain, causing death)
Causes of Sepsis
Sepsis is frequently the result of a prior localized infection in the body that the immune system has not fought off. This infection could occur in any part of the body – such as within the respiratory, gastrointestinal, or nervous systems – but most frequently involves a skin infection, such as infection around bedsores or surgical incisions.
Because of their often weakened immune conditions, nursing home residents and hospital patients with prior infections or surgeries are most at risk of serious injury or death if they develop sepsis. Doctors and nursing staff must closely monitor these patients for bedsores, postoperative infection, and the early warning signs of sepsis.
Sepsis Malpractice Lawsuit
If sepsis develops as a result of misdiagnosis or medical negligence, victims and their families have the right to seek legal remedy by filing a lawsuit. If you plan on filing a lawsuit, you should contact a lawyer immediately. Each state has a time limit called a statute of limitations, restricting how long you have to file a claim. The time limit varies from state to state. If you wait too long you will not be able to take legal action.
Learn about other types of infections.
