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Sepsis occurs when your body responds to bacteremia – the presence of bacteria in your bloodstream. Sepsis can be deadly. Blood pressure may drop and the lungs and kidneys may start to fail. Emergency care for sepsis is crucial.
Those most at risk for sepsis are:
Infants or older adults
People who have an illness such as cancer, AIDS, or diabetes
People being treated with chemotherapy medications or radiation
People who have had a transplant
People with an infection such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a urinary tract infection
Sepsis is a medical emergency. Go to the nearest emergency department if a fever is present with any of these symptoms:
Chills and shaking
Fever or low body temperature (hypothermia)
Rapid heartbeat and breathing; shortness of breath
Nausea or vomiting
Confusion, dizziness
Skin rash
Decreased urination
Blood and urine tests are done to look for the presence of bacteria.
A blood culture may be done. In this test, a blood sample is sent to a lab, where it’s placed in a special container. Any bacteria in the blood should grow in 24 hours.
X-rays may be taken or other imaging tests may be done.
A person with sepsis will be admitted to the hospital and treated with antibiotics. Treatment may also include oxygen and intravenous fluids.