On March 30, the world received the sad news that Oscar-winning actress Patty Duke had died of sepsis. Along with mourning the beloved actress, many Americans also were left wondering what exactly sepsis is and why it can be deadly.
"If people are familiar with sepsis at all, often they just know that it's somehow connected to blood poisoning," said Lake Regional Quality Specialist Hilary English, MSN, R.N. "The lack of awareness is a big problem because sepsis is common and, without proper treatment, often fatal. Knowing the early signs of sepsis is critical for saving lives."
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is the body's overwhelming and life-threatening response to an infection. It's often referred to as blood poisoning because the overwhelming immune system response occurs in the blood and causes inflammation within blood vessel linings. This inflammation then leads to the formation of small blood clots, which can cause tissue damage, organ failure and death.
How does sepsis start?
Sepsis can result from any infection, anywhere in the body.
"The infection might begin in an organ - for example, pneumonia in the lungs - or it might be introduced through an open sore, surgical incision or invasive medical device," English said. "Even a minor infection can lead to sepsis."
Who is at risk?
Anyone can get sepsis, but the risk is higher in seniors: Two-thirds of all sepsis cases occur in people 65 and older. Other people with elevated risk include the very young; people with weakened immune systems; people with chronic illnesses; and people suffering from a severe burn or wound.
What are the symptoms?
Signs include extreme pain/general discomfort; fast/difficult breathing; chills or shaking; fever or low body temperature; fast heart beat; lightheadedness/weakness; confusion, sleepiness or difficulty waking up; less urine output; and pale or mottled skin or a skin rash. Many of the symptoms of sepsis look like other conditions, making sepsis difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
What do I do if I suspect sepsis?
"If you have an infection and develop any signs of sepsis, immediately seek medical treatment," English said. "Tell your doctor, 'I am concerned about sepsis.'"
How is sepsis treated?
Sepsis usually requires hospitalization and sometimes, admittance into the intensive care unit. Doctors try to treat the infection, keep the vital organs working and prevent a drop in blood pressure.
Doctors treat sepsis with antibiotics as soon as possible. Many patients receive oxygen and intravenous fluids to maintain normal blood oxygen levels and blood pressure. Other treatments, such as machine-assisted breathing or kidney dialysis, may be necessary. Sometimes surgery is required to remove infection-damaged tissue.
Are there long-term effects?
Many people recover completely from sepsis, but others may experience permanent organ damage.
"Seniors are at particular risk for a bad outcome from sepsis," English said. "Anytime an older adult has an infection, they, their loved ones and their care providers need to be on high alert for sepsis signs."
Is sepsis preventable?
The best way to prevent sepsis is to prevent infections. Get vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia. Also, clean scrapes and wounds, and practice good hand washing and good personal hygiene.
"There are three important steps everyone should follow to help reduce sepsis deaths: 1) practice preventative strategies that reduce the risk of infection, 2) know the signs of sepsis and 3) seek early treatment," English said. "Being alert for sepsis can save lives."