Hendrick Health advises early recognition of sepsis for successful treatment

An estimated one-third of U.S. adults have never heard of sepsis, which contributes to more deaths globally than cancer, according to facts from the Sepsis Alliance. The group has designated September as Sepsis Awareness Month.

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that develops when the body responds in extreme ways to fight an infection. The aggressive response can damage tissue and organs and progress rapidly, leading to septic shock in which multiple organs quickly fail, leading to death.

“Sepsis is a medical emergency that should be recognized as seriously as a heart attack or stroke and treated just as urgently,” said Anabel Cruz, core measures coordinator in the Quality Department at Hendrick Health.

Because the risk of mortality from sepsis increases by 4 – 9% for every hour treatment is delayed, recognizing the symptoms early is important. The Sepsis Alliance suggests the phrase “It’s about TIME,” to remember the signs of sepsis:

T – Temperature: Higher or lower than normal
I – Infection: May have signs or symptoms of infection
M – Mental Decline: Confused, sleepy or difficult to rouse
E – Extremely Ill: Severe pain, discomfort and shortness of breath

If these symptoms are observed, especially in combination, immediately seek medical attention.

Sepsis can be caused by any infection, such as fungal, viral, parasitic or bacterial. The risk of sepsis can be reduced by preventing infections through the practice of good hygiene, staying current with vaccinations and seeking treatment when infections are suspected. As many as 87% of sepsis cases originate in the community, according to the Sepsis Alliance.

With rapid treatment, sepsis patients can recover in the vast majority of cases, according to the Sepsis Alliance.