Severe Sepsis

Overview

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that often leads to fatality. Sepsis is caused by the body response to an infection in the bloodstream called septicemia. Severe sepsis is a sequelae of sepsis with organ dysfunction. Some common signs and symptoms of severe sepsis are discolouration of the skin, weakness, breathing difficulties, changes in mental status, confusion, abnormal heart rhythm and decreased urination. Severe sepsis can also lead to septic shock where there is severe hypotension with adequate fluid resuscitation. Severe sepsis can be diagnosed through full blood count, lactate levels, blood urea, serum electrolytes, urinalysis, culture and sensitivity. Severe sepsis is an emergency condition and it is treated with antibiotics, insulins, intravenous fluids, vasoactive drugs and dialysis. Monitoring the blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, oxygen saturation, lactate levels and fluid input output is important during the management of the condition.