Interview : “Sepsis Can Affect Anyone”

What are the symptoms of Sepsis?
Symptoms of Sepsis can include: fever and/or chills, confusion or disorientation, difficulty in breathing, fast heart rate or low blood pressure (hypotension), extreme pain and sweaty skin. However, severe Sepsis is characterised by organ failure. A patient must have one or more of the following signs to be diagnosed with severe Sepsis; decreased urination, change in mental ability, extreme weakness and unconsciousness. Sepsis can advance very quickly to severe Sepsis and Septic shock and this becomes more life-threatening. People are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they have any symptoms of Sepsis. The earlier someone seeks treatment, the greater their chance of recovering.

Who is exposed to Sepsis?
Sepsis can affect anyone, but those at particular risks include very old people (older than 65 years) or very young or pregnant women. Also, people with pre-existing infections or medical conditions are at risk of contracting Sepsis. Such is the case with people with weaker immune systems, including people with HIV, diabetes or those undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer. People with severe injuries, such as large burns or wounds as well as patients with catheters (IVs, urinary catheters) or a breathing tube, are exposed to Sepsis. An uncontrolled consumption of antibiotics can promote the proliferation of bacteria resistant to antibiotics and seps...