What are the symptoms of sepsis?

The symptoms of sepsis can vary depending on the underlying infection, the severity of the systemic inflammatory response, and the individual's overall health status. Sepsis can present with a wide range of signs and symptoms, which may develop rapidly and progress to severe illness if not promptly recognized and treated. Common symptoms of sepsis may include:

Fever or hypothermia: Sepsis can cause changes in body temperature, leading to fever (high body temperature) or hypothermia (low body temperature). Fever is a common sign of systemic inflammation and infection, while hypothermia may occur in severe cases of sepsis due to impaired thermoregulation.


Rapid heart rate (tachycardia): An abnormally fast heart rate, often exceeding 90 beats per minute at rest, may occur in response to the body's efforts to maintain blood flow to vital organs in the face of systemic inflammation. Tachycardia is a hallmark sign of sepsis and can be an early indicator of circulatory compromise.


Rapid breathing (tachypnea): Increased respiratory rate, often exceeding 20 breaths per minute at rest, may occur in response to metabolic acidosis (a buildup of acidic substances in the blood) and impaired gas exchange in the lungs. Tachypnea is a common feature of sepsis and may be accompanied by shallow or labored breathing.


Low blood pressure (hypotension): Decreased blood pressure, particularly systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg, may occur in severe cases of sepsis or septic shock. Hypotension reflects inadequate tissue perfusion and may lead to organ dysfunction and shock if left untreated.


Altered mental status: Confusion, disorientation, agitation, or decreased level of consciousness may occur in individuals with severe sepsis or septic shock, reflecting impaired brain function due to systemic inflammation and hypoperfusion. Altered mental status may be more pronounced in older adults or individuals with preexisting cognitive impairment.


Decreased urine output: Oliguria (decreased urine output) or anuria (absence of urine output) may occur in response to decreased renal blood flow and acute kidney injury (acute renal failure) in severe cases of sepsis. Decreased urine output may indicate impaired kidney function and fluid imbalance.


Hypoxemia: Low oxygen levels in the blood, often detected by pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis, may occur due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs or decreased oxygen delivery to tissues. Hypoxemia may lead to respiratory distress and tissue hypoxia in individuals with severe sepsis.


Lactic acidosis: Elevated blood lactate levels, often detected by blood tests, may occur in response to tissue hypoxia and anaerobic metabolism in severe cases of sepsis or septic shock. Lactic acidosis reflects impaired cellular metabolism and may indicate tissue hypoperfusion and organ dysfunction.

Other signs and symptoms of sepsis may include:Chills or rigors
Profuse sweating
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Muscle pain or weakness
Skin rash or mottled appearance
Petechiae or purpura (small red or purple spots on the skin)
Difficulty swallowing or speaking

It's important to note that not all individuals with sepsis will exhibit all of these symptoms, and the presentation of sepsis can vary widely depending on factors such as the underlying infection, the individual's age and comorbidities, and the severity of the inflammatory response. Additionally, some symptoms of sepsis, such as altered mental status or hypotension, may be more pronounced in older adults or individuals with preexisting medical conditions.

Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent progression to severe sepsis, septic shock, or multiple organ failure. Early diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic therapy, fluid resuscitation, and supportive care are essential for improving outcomes and reducing mortality in patients with sepsis. If you suspect you or someone else may have sepsis, it's important to seek medical attention immediately for evaluation and treatment.