Sepsis: symptoms, causes and urgent treatment

Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection that needs urgent medical assessment and treatment.

The body's response can disrupt circulation and affect organs. It may begin with an infection in one area, then make a person become suddenly much more unwell. Suspected sepsis should be assessed urgently in an emergency department.

Fever is a very common presentation of sepsis, while chills, feeling generally unwell, weakness and loss of appetite are common presentations. Confusion, extreme sleepiness, breathing difficulty, mottled skin, a new rash that does not fade, or very little urine are urgent warning signs.

Bacterial infections are a frequent trigger, although other germs can also be involved. An infection may start in the lungs, urinary tract, skin, abdomen or around a wound. Pneumonia, cellulitis and urinary tract infection are examples of infections that sometimes require prompt reassessment when a person deteriorates.

Symptoms can change over hours. A person may first notice fever, pain or fatigue from the original infection, then develop worsening weakness, dizziness, confusion or breathlessness. Do not wait for all signs to appear if someone is rapidly becoming more unwell.

Sepsis can affect anyone with an infection. Extra vigilance is sensible for babies, older adults, pregnant people, people with a weakened immune system, and those recovering from surgery or living with long-term health conditions. A recent procedure, wound or medical device may also provide a route for infection.

Clinicians assess breathing, pulse, blood pressure, temperature, alertness and urine output alongside the suspected source of infection. Blood tests, urine testing, imaging or samples from a wound may help identify the infection and show how the body is responding. Assessment and treatment often happen at the same time.

Treatment depends on the source and severity of illness. It can include antibiotics, intravenous fluids, oxygen, medicines to support blood pressure, and treatment to control the infection source such as draining an abscess. Some people need close monitoring in a higher-acuity hospital setting.

Recovery can involve tiredness, reduced strength, disturbed sleep, low mood or difficulty concentrating. Rest, gradual activity and follow-up for ongoing symptoms can help. Seek medical advice promptly if fever returns, a wound changes, or the original infection symptoms worsen again.

Because sepsis can affect blood flow and organs, complications may involve the lungs, kidneys, heart, brain or limbs. Early treatment aims to limit this harm. Ongoing medical review is important when symptoms persist after leaving hospital or daily activities remain difficult.

Keep wounds clean and follow wound-care instructions. Take prescribed medicines as directed, attend follow-up after procedures, and seek advice for infections that worsen or fail to improve. Recommended vaccinations and good hand hygiene can also reduce some infection risks.

For possible sepsis, emergency care is the priority rather than waiting for a routine appointment. After the urgent episode, a GP can coordinate recovery and refer to relevant specialists if the source of infection or complications need further care.