Why does sepsis cause fever?

During sepsis, infection and the body’s immune response can affect the brain’s temperature-regulating centre. The body then makes and conserves more heat, which may bring chills, sweating, shaking, thirst or feeling hot. Fever is a very common presentation of Sepsis, but fever also occurs with many illnesses that are not sepsis. Some people with sepsis may instead have a low temperature, especially if they are very unwell.

Treat a fever as a sign to check the whole person, not only the thermometer. Encourage small sips of fluid if they can swallow safely, note new symptoms and do not leave someone who is becoming confused or difficult to wake. A clinician may need to examine them, look for the infection source and arrange urgent treatment. Do not use leftover antibiotics or delay assessment while waiting to see whether the temperature settles.

Seek emergency medical help immediately for fever with confusion, new drowsiness, trouble breathing, blue or mottled skin, a rash that does not fade when pressed, severe weakness, or markedly reduced urine. Urgent assessment is also needed when a person with a suspected infection is rapidly getting worse, cannot keep fluids down, or seems unusually unwell. These warning signs require prompt attention regardless of the fever reading.

Ask what infection may be causing the illness, which observations need monitoring, and whether tests are needed to assess organ function. If treatment starts, ask what change should prompt an immediate return for care and how to manage fluids and fever safely at home.