On World Sepsis Day, health experts remind Americans that sepsis strikes 1.7 million people in the U.S. each year and causes more than 350,000 deaths.
Yet despite those staggering numbers, many Americans don’t know what sepsis is or how to recognize it before it turns deadly.
Worldwide, sepsis is responsible for 1 in 10 ICU admissions and remains the leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, experts say.
And most cases begin outside of the hospital, making it essential to spot early warning signs at home.
“Sharing your symptoms with a medical professional in the emergency room is crucial and even asking the question, ‘do I have sepsis?’
Health professionals remind Americans on World Sepsis Day that 1 in 7 Americans suffer from sepsis. A. and results in over 350,000 fatalities annually.
Even so, a large number of Americans are unaware of the symptoms of sepsis and how to identify it before it becomes fatal.
Dr. Faisal Masud, Houston Methodist’s medical director of critical care, stated in a news release that “symptoms can range from rapid breathing, increased rate, fever, chills, and sudden drop in blood pressure.”. Sharing your symptoms with a medical professional as soon as possible is crucial because early detection can mean the difference between life and death. “.”.
An extreme reaction to an infection is sepsis. Excessive immune system reaction can cause widespread inflammation, which can harm organs and cause death. This harmful reaction can be triggered by even a minor infection.
Sepsis continues to be the nation’s leading cause of death and accounts for one out of every ten intensive care unit admissions. S. . experts say hospitals. Identifying early warning signs at home is crucial because the majority of cases start outside of the hospital.
Physicians advise staying abreast of the acronym T. Me. M. E. :.
T represents a change in temperature, like a fever.
The letter I stands for infection.
M is for change in mental status.
E stands for very bad feelings.
“Fever, chills, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, and abrupt drop in blood pressure are some of the symptoms,” Masud continued.
Although sepsis can affect anyone, some groups are more susceptible than others.
youngsters younger than one year old.
seniors.
those suffering from long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease.
those whose immune systems are compromised.
Sepsis is an urgent medical condition. IV fluids and antibiotics are common components of treatment.
Masud stated that “it is essential to discuss your symptoms with a medical professional in the emergency room, and even asking ‘do I have sepsis?’ can make a lifesaving difference.”.
Further details.
On sepsis, see the Mayo Clinic.
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