Sepsis from Mellissa Grey's blog

Sepsis is a global problem of humankind and often a cause of death in the civilized world. Although many advanced technologies have appeared, sepsis still may lead to the potentially fatal consequences. The purpose of this essay is to show what sepsis is, its signs and symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis, possible medications, and treatments.

Sepsis is defined as the presence of infection together with systemic manifestations of infection in the body (Cardiome Pharma Corp., 2015). This serious infection develops if bacteria penetrate the bloodstream. For this reason, sepsis is also known as blood poisoning.

Determining the signs of the disease is the first step in preventing the health hazards; otherwise, sepsis progresses impetuously. The symptoms of sepsis include chills, fever, hypothermia, choking, pale skin (probably with red spots), increased palpitations, confusion, and little urine production. If the symptoms are not recognized, the complications may cause death.

The most efficient way to identify if one has septicemia is to see a doctor who will check the temperature and blood pressure. In case sepsis is suspected, it can be detected with the blood culture testing, tests of blood oxygen levels, blood count, urine tests, liver or kidney function check, wound testing, and scans. If the sepsis is identified, a doctor makes a plan how to fight the disease.

According to Balentine (2014), the overall death rate from sepsis is approximately 40%. For the elderly, there is a higher risk of sepsis. The prognosis of septicemia depends on age health history, how fast the diagnosis is made, overall health status, and what bacteria cause the disease.

Immediate treatment of sepsis is crucial. To maintain normal blood pressure, the patient receives oxygen and fluids intravenously; plasma is used to correct blood clots. For extreme situations, surgery is applied. In addition, such medications as antibiotics, vasopressors (to increase blood pressure), and insulin (to restore normal blood sugar levels) are used to treat sepsis (Patouhas, 2014).

Therefore, sepsis is a very dangerous infection that threatens people’s lives if it is not recognized and treated on time. To prevent the blood poisoning, people should raise the awareness about it. If one suspects sepsis, they should take measures not to let the infection develop before it is too late.