Harvard Health Publishing And 3 More Doctors Weigh In On: What Happens When Someone Gets Sepsis And How Do You Treat It?

Sepsis image

Answered by Dr. Howard E. Lewine

M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA

Experts continue to debate the best definition of sepsis. Rather than waiting for specific criteria to be fulfilled, it’s most important to recognize that a person may be developing life threatening bodily changes. Three consistent features of sepsis are a fast breathing rate, low blood pressure and altered mentation. Treatment starts with vigorous intravenous fluids and usually two or more intravenous antibiotics if there is any suspicion of a bacterial infection causing sepsis.

Answered by Dr. Afra Abdussamad

MBBS · 3.5 years of experience · India

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. If not recognized early and managed promptly, it can lead to septic shock, multiple organ failure and death. Broad-spectrum antibiotics may fight infections caused by bacteria early on. Diagnostics will help identify a causal pathogen of infection leading to sepsis which is an important guide to targeted antimicrobial treatment. Early fluid resuscitation to improve volume status is also important in the initial phase of sepsis management. In addition, vasopressors may be required to improve and maintain tissue perfusion. Repeated exams and assessments, including monitoring vital signs, guide the appropriate management of sepsis over time. In severe cases providing a means of assisted breathing may be required. Surgery to remove damaged tissue may also be necessary in some cases.

→ Learn more about sepsis: See the causes, symptoms, treatment options and more.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to sepsis.

Answered by Dr. Sujith Chunduri

MBBS · 2 years of experience · India

Sepsis occurs when infection elsewhere in the body like lungs or skin enters the blood circulation. During sepsis, there may be the formation of blood clots and block the flow of blood and oxygen to vital organs and other parts of your body. This increases the risk of organ failure and gangrene. If not treated sepsis may go into septic shock. Antibiotics iv to treat the infection. Vasoactive medications to increase blood flow. Insulin to stabilize blood sugar levels. Steroids to reduce inflammation. Painkillers if needed. Dialysis may be needed if the kidneys are involved.

Answered by Dr. Hariteja A

MBBS · 4 years of experience · India

A life-threatening complication of an infection, Sepsis occurs when chemicals released in the bloodstream to fight an infection trigger inflammation throughout the body. This can cause a cascade of changes that damage multiple organ systems, leading them to fail, sometimes even resulting in death. Treatment consists of antibiotics and fluids Treatment includes antibiotics and intravenous fluids, Supportive care – Mechanical ventilation, Hospitalization, Fluid replacement and IV fluids. Medications – Vasoconstrictor, Antibiotics, Blood pressure support and Steroid. Devices – Central venous catheter.

→ Learn more about sepsis: See the causes, symptoms, treatment options and more.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to sepsis.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.