Sepsis Treatment

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection injures its own tissues and organs. It is a complication of an infection that triggers a chain reaction throughout the body. Sepsis can lead to septic shock, which is characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure that can lead to severe organ failure and death. Early detection and treatment are crucial for survival, making awareness and understanding of sepsis vital.

 

Diagnosing Sepsis

Diagnosing sepsis requires a thorough clinical evaluation, as its symptoms can mimic other conditions. Our Healthcare providers typically use a combination of the following methods:

  • Clinical signs: Observing symptoms such as high fever, chills, rapid breathing, and confusion.
  • Blood tests: Checking for elevated white blood cell count, lactate levels, and markers of inflammation like C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin.
  • Imaging: X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans to locate the source of infection.
  • Microbiological cultures: Identifying the causative organism from blood, urine, or other bodily fluids.
  • Physical examination: Assessing for skin abnormalities, such as mottling or discoloration, which can indicate poor blood flow.

Key Features of Sepsis

Sepsis manifests through a variety of symptoms that reflect systemic infection and organ dysfunction. Key features include:

  • Fever or hypothermia: An abnormal body temperature, either high (fever) or low (hypothermia).
  • Tachycardia: An increased heart rate, often exceeding 90 beats per minute.
  • Tachypnea: Rapid breathing, typically more than 20 breaths per minute.
  • Altered mental status: Confusion, disorientation, or decreased alertness.
  • Hypotension: Low blood pressure, which may persist despite fluid resuscitation.
  • Oliguria: Reduced urine output, indicating kidney dysfunction.
  • Skin changes: Cold, clammy skin or a rash that does not fade under pressure

Sepsis Triggers

Sepsis can be triggered by any type of infection, but some are more common than others:

  • Bacterial infections: The most frequent cause, often originating from pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), abdominal infections (like appendicitis or diverticulitis), and skin infections.
  • Viral infections: Influenza, COVID-19, and other viral illnesses can also lead to sepsis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Fungal infections: Candida and other fungi can cause sepsis, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
  • Parasitic infections: Though less common, parasites like those causing malaria can result in sepsis.

Treatment Options

Treating sepsis requires prompt and aggressive medical intervention to stabilize the patient and eliminate the infection. Initial treatment typically involves the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics as soon as sepsis is suspected, which are later tailored based on culture results to target the specific causative organism.

Intravenous fluids are administered to maintain blood pressure and ensure adequate blood flow to vital organs. If fluids alone are insufficient, vasopressors—medications that constrict blood vessels—may be used to raise blood pressure. Oxygen therapy is often necessary to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream.

Supportive care, which may include mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure and dialysis for kidney failure, is crucial to manage the various complications that arise with sepsis. In some cases, surgery may be required to drain abscesses or remove infected tissue.

Tips for Living with Sepsis

Recovering from sepsis can be a challenging and lengthy process, requiring a comprehensive approach to health and well-being. Regular follow-up care with healthcare providers is essential to monitor recovery and manage any complications that may arise.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate rest, can help strengthen the immune system and promote overall health. Infection prevention measures, such as practicing good hygiene, staying up-to-date with vaccinations, and promptly treating any infections, are crucial to avoid recurrence.

Emotional support from family, friends, and support groups can be invaluable in coping with the psychological and emotional impact of surviving sepsis. Additionally, being vigilant for any signs of recurring infection, such as fever or fatigue, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms reappear, is important for early intervention and prevention of further complications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sepsis

Anyone can develop sepsis, but certain groups are at higher risk. This includes the very young, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, those with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, cancer, or kidney disease), and individuals with severe injuries or burns.

 

5 Convenient Houston Locations

Conroe

506 Medical Center Blvd. Ste. 100
Conroe, TX 77304
Phone: (281) 569-2130
Fax: (281) 419-1291
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

North Houston

1125 Cypress Station Dr. Ste. E
Houston, TX 77090
Phone: (281) 537-6300
Fax: (281) 719-5933
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

The Woodlands

1111 Medical Plaza Dr. Ste. 250
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Phone: (281) 296-8788
Fax: (281) 419-1291
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tomball

13426 Medical Complex Dr. Ste. 175
Tomball, TX 77375
Phone: (281) 296-8788
Fax: (281) 419-1291
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Vintage Park

20207 Chasewood Park Dr. Ste. 201
Houston, TX 77070
Phone: (281) 537-6300
Fax: (281) 537-7575
Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM