blood poisoning

Sepsis know the Signs and Symptoms

21st February 2015

Sepsis is a common and potentially life-threatening condition triggered by an infection. Each year in the UK, it is estimated that more than 100,000 people are admitted to hospital with sepsis and around 37,000 people will die as a result of the condition. In sepsis, the body’s immune system goes into overdrive, setting off a series of reactions including widespread inflammation, swelling and blood clotting. This can lead to a significant decrease in blood pressure, which can mean the blood supply to vital organs such as the brain, heart and kidneys is reduced. If not treated quickly, sepsis can eventually lead to multiple organ failure and death. Signs and Symptoms of Sepsis Early symptoms of sepsis usually develop quickly and can include: a high temperature (fever) chills [More…]

Sepsis: Antibiotics ‘Not Working’

14th October 2014

Doctors specialising in intensive care are warning that the growing resistance of bacteria to antibiotics could be leading to a rise in the number of people who die from sepsis. Around 37,000 people in the UK die each year from sepsis – the result of blood poisoning – and doctors say things could get much worse without new treatments and better prevention. Source: Hugh Pym reports BBC News 20th August 2014 Facts about sepsis Sepsis is a more common reason for hospital admission than heart attack and has a higher mortality. The most common causes of severe sepsis are pneumonia, bowel perforation, urinary infection, and severe skin infections. The most common signs of sepsis are a high fever, violent shivering, fainting, cold and pale hands, [More…]

Sepsis – Know the Symptoms

14th July 2014

Sepsis is a potentially fatal condition caused by the body’s immune system overreacting to infection, setting off a series of reactions that can lead to widespread inflammation (swelling) and blood clotting. Around 37,000 people are estimated to die of sepsis each year, accounting for 100,000 hospital admissions. Symptoms of Sepsis usually develop quickly and include: a fever or high temperature over 38C (100.4F) chills a fast heartbeat fast breathing In severe cases you may notice: you feel dizzy when you stand up confusion or disorientation nausea and vomiting. Facts about Sepsis Sepsis is a more common reason for hospital admission than heart attack – and has a higher mortality. The most common causes of severe sepsis are pneumonia, bowel perforation, urinary infection, and severe skin [More…]