What happens if sepsis is not treated?

Sepsis is a medical emergency in which the body reacts severely to an infection. Inflammation can affect the blood vessels and circulation, so tissues may not receive enough oxygen. The kidneys, lungs, brain and other organs can then begin to work poorly. The original infection may start in the lungs, urinary tract or another area, and the illness can progress even when the source is not obvious.

Possible warning features include fever or chills, feeling generally unwell, marked weakness, confusion, fast breathing or very little urine. These symptoms can have other causes, but a rapidly worsening illness needs prompt assessment.

Treat suspected sepsis as an emergency. Call emergency services or go to an emergency department, especially if someone is confused, unusually drowsy, breathless, faint, cold and clammy, or rapidly deteriorating. Do not wait for a rash or for every symptom to appear. Clinicians may check vital signs, blood tests and the likely infection source, then provide treatment such as antibiotics, oxygen or IV fluids when appropriate.

Seek emergency help immediately for new confusion, difficulty breathing, fainting, severe weakness, blue or mottled skin, or a sudden major reduction in urine. Urgent assessment is also needed when fever, chills or feeling generally unwell follows an infection and the person is worsening rather than recovering.

Ask what infection may be causing the illness, which changes should trigger emergency help, how hydration and medicines should be managed, and when follow-up testing is needed.