Sepsis is a serious condition that happens when the body overreacts to an infection. Instead of fighting off the infection in a controlled way, the immune system goes into overdrive, causing widespread inflammation that can damage organs and tissues.
Diagnosing sepsis is challenging because there’s no single symptom or definitive test. It can affect anyone — though it’s more common in very young children, older adults, and people with underlying health issues, even healthy individuals can sometimes develop sepsis unexpectedly.
Sepsis can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and even death. It is a life-threatening medical emergency if untreated. Early treatment and prompt treatment are crucial.
Anyone with an infection can get sepsis.
How to spot sepsis in adults:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering or muscle pain
- Passing no urine (in a day)
- Severe breathlessness
- Skin mottled or discoloured
A child may have sepsis if they:
- Are breathing very fast
- Have a ‘fit’ or convulsion
- Look mottled, bluish, or pale – on darker pigmented skin, colour changes may show on the inside of the forearms or palms
- Have a rash that does not fade when you press it
- Are very lethargic or difficult to wake
- Feel abnormally cold to touch
In September 2024 UK Sepsis Trust urged the Government to take Sepsis as seriously as strokes and heart attacks amidst record public awareness levels.
If you or another adult or child develop any of these signs, it is important to seek urgent medical attention.
Call 111 or contact your GP if you are worried about an infection.
For more information:
About sepsis – The UK Sepsis Trust
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