Sepsis: Know the Signs and Symptoms

Sepsis Awareness Month Aims To Raise Understanding of this Leading Cause of Death in U.S. Hospitals. 

What Is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body's overwhelming reaction to an infection (sometimes also called blood poisoning). If not treated quickly it can lead to organ and tissue damage and death.

September is Sepsis Awareness month and the CDC has educational materials describing Sepsis.

Most importantly, know the symptoms.

And if you suspect sepsis, tell your doctor and health care providers, "Could this be sepsis?"

What Are the Symptoms of Sepsis?

There is no single symptom of sepsis. It can present in any combination of the following:

• Confusion or dissorientation
• Fever, or shivering, feeling very cold
• Shortness of breath
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• High heart rate
• Clammy or sweaty skin.

Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you suspect sepsis, get to an emergency room immediately and tell them you suspect SEPSIS.

For more information, please see our Sepsis post on our Patient Safety Blog, as well as more information at:
https://www.cdc.gov/sepsis

Lubin & Meyer PC - New Hampshire's Leader in Medical Malpractice Law

Questions about an injury or death due to Sepsis? Contact our medical malpractice lawyers for a free case review in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or Rhode Island.