Top 5 Myths Busted About Sepsis
Sepsis is a serious health condition that is the result of an extreme reaction of the immune system to an infection. Affecting millions globally, this life-threatening illness must be diagnosed and treated in time to arrest its development before it’s too late.
This article busts five common myths about sepsis to ensure individuals have all the right facts about this condition and can prevent its onset and recognise its symptoms in time to seek medical attention.
1. Sepsis Affects Only Patients in the Hospital
Fact: Sepsis can affect any person.
To bust this myth about sepsis, we need to understand sepsis and what is it. Since sepsis is the immune system’s extreme reaction to a viral, fungal or bacterial infection, which can affect anyone, it is not necessary that sepsis patients must be admitted to the hospital. It can affect anyone who might be suffering from an infection and nursing it at home or through treatments prescribed by the doctor.
Individuals must seek medical attention if their infection persists for longer than usual or symptoms get worse or don’t disappear despite medical attention.
2. Sepsis Has Unique Symptoms
Fact: Sepsis doesn’t have unique symptoms but common ones that are also the symptoms of other illnesses.
Sepsis is a result of an existing infection in the body. And so, its symptoms are quite similar to other infections and can be easily overlooked. Further, since infections can take place across the body, these symptoms can be anywhere on one’s body as well. Some of the common sepsis symptoms in adults include:
• Reduced energy or weakness
• Low blood pressure
• Fever or hypothermia (extremely low body temperature)
• Shortness of breath or hyperventilation (rapid breathing)
• Extreme discomfort or pain
• Urinary issues such as reduced or increased urge to urinate
• Chills or shaking
• Sweaty skin
• Confusion and agitation
Individuals who notice the symptoms above, must consult a healthcare professional at the earliest.
3. Sepsis is Rare and Only Affects Those Who Have a Preexisting Health Condition
Fact: Sepsis affects millions around the world and can affect anyone.
While certain individuals, such as children, the elderly, individuals with weak immune systems, individuals suffering from HIV, cancer or other chronic conditions, individuals admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU), or those exposed to invasive medical devices such as catheters and breathing tubes are most likely to develop sepsis, this illness can affect anyone.
4. Sepsis is a Hidden Killer
Fact: Sepsis has symptoms that individuals can notice.
Sepsis is not a hidden killer and can be identified and treated in time. As discussed above, while it doesn’t have unique symptoms, its signs are easy to notice and can be acted upon if individuals stay vigilant.
Further, individuals can take measures to prevent sepsis as well. Here are some ways to prevent sepsis:
• Staying updated with vaccines
• Ensuring routine medical care for chronic conditions
• Seeking medical attention in case of sepsis symptoms
• Practising good hygiene
• Ensuring cuts and wounds are cleaned and covered
5. Sepsis Cannot be Overcome
Fact: Sepsis is curable if treated in time.
There are three stages of sepsis. These include:
• Sepsis: This stage is where an infection enters the bloodstream and causes inflammation.
• Severe Sepsis: This stage is where the sepsis begins affecting organ function.
• Septic Shock: This is an extreme stage where the sepsis causes a drop in blood pressure and complications such as organ dysfunction, heart failure or respiratory failure, stroke or even death.
Sepsis can be treated, and patients can overcome the health condition if it is recognised and treated early. Individuals must seek medical attention in case they notice symptoms and book necessary tests for timely and accurate treatment.
Sepsis takes place when an infection causes an extreme response from the body’s immune system. It can affect anyone and has common systems, as discussed above. Further, it can be cured if treated in time. Individuals who notice the above-mentioned symptoms must consult a medical professional and book a Sepsis panel test with Dr Lal PathLabs for timely and accurate medical treatment.
FAQs
1. What is sepsis?
Sepsis occurs when an existing infection causes an extreme reaction from the body’s immune system.
2. What is the last stage of sepsis?
The last stage of sepsis is septic shock. This stage is characterised by sepsis, causing complications such as a drop in blood pressure, respiratory or heart failure, stroke, organ dysfunction, or even death.
3. Who is most at risk for sepsis?
The ones most at risk of sepsis include the elderly, children, individuals with weak immune systems, and those suffering from HIV, cancer or other chronic conditions. Further, individuals admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU) or those exposed to invasive medical devices such as catheters and breathing tubes are also at risk.
4. Is sepsis curable?
Yes, sepsis is treatable if caught early and treated properly. If adults or children have sepsis symptoms, they must consult a medical professional and book necessary tests.
