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What is Sepsis? Sepsis is a severe illness caused by overwhelming infection of the bloodstream by toxin-producing bacteria. Microorganisms invading the body cause infections. Sepsis is also called Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Sepsis is very serious. It is often life-threatening. What Causes Sepsis? Sepsis is caused by a bacterial infection. The bacterial infection can originate anywhere in the body. The most common areas the infection originates from are:
In hospital patients, bacterial infection may originate from intravenous lines, surgical wounds, surgical drains, and sites of skin ulcers or bedsores. Sepsis can also be triggered by events such as pneumonia, trauma, surgery and burns, or by conditions such as cancer or AIDS. How is Sepsis Diagnosed? Sepsis can be diagnosed by a blood test. Symptoms of Sepsis
Complications of Sepsis In some cases, the kidneys, liver, lungs, and central nervous system, may stop functioning normally. There may also be a decreased blood flow to the kidneys, liver, lungs, and central nervous system. Treatment Options for Sepsis Treatment will depend on where the infection originated. In order to do this, the source of the infection must be found. Who is at Risk for Developing Sepsis? Anyone can develop sepsis. However, some people have a higher risk than others. People with a higher risk include:
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