Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body’s response to an infection causes damage to its own tissues and organs. If not recognized and treated quickly, sepsis can lead to organ failure, long-term disability or death.
In the United States, more than 1.7 million people are diagnosed with sepsis each year. Every two minutes, someone dies from it. That includes 350,000 adults and 6,800 children annually.
Anyone can develop sepsis, but certain groups are at higher risk, including infants, older adults, people with weakened immune systems and individuals from marginalized communities. The key to survival is early recognition and timely treatment. For every hour treatment is delayed, the risk of death increases by 4 to 9%.
Common signs and symptoms of sepsis include:
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High heart rate or low blood pressure
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Confusion or disorientation
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Shortness of breath
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Fever, shivering or feeling very cold
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Extreme pain or discomfort
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Clammy or sweaty skin
Sepsis is a public health crisis, but it is also preventable. Knowing the signs and acting quickly can save lives. If you or someone you know shows signs of sepsis, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Providence's own Dr. Shelley Schoepflin Sanders worked with real sepsis survivors to develop innovative patient education materials as part of her Health Equity Fellowship project. These engaging resources, including graphic novels and videos, are crafted to help patients understand and prevent sepsis effectively. Access these materials by visiting the Providence Sepsis Education page.
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