Sepsis: RWJBarnabas Health Experts Share the Warning Signs You Should Know

According to the Sepsis Alliance, more than 1.7 million people in the United States develop sepsis in a single year. Although sepsis can develop quickly and become life-threatening, its early symptoms may be mistaken for a routine infection or another common illness. As many as 80% of sepsis cases may be preventable, meaning that awareness and the ability to recognize the symptoms - and seeking immediate medical attention - can make a critical difference.

"Sepsis is a medical emergency, and every moment matters," says Thomas Nahass, MD, Vice President of Health Informatics and an intensive care physician at RWJBarnabas Health. "Knowing the warning signs and acting quickly gives the medical team the best opportunity to identify the cause, begin treatment and prevent the condition from progressing."

What Is Sepsis?

Sepsis is the body's extreme response to an infection. It occurs when an existing infection triggers a chain reaction that can damage healthy tissues and organs. Without prompt treatment, sepsis can lead to organ failure, septic shock and death.

Sepsis itself is not an infection. Rather, it is a dangerous response to an infection that is already present in the body. Many cases begin before a patient reaches the hospital, making awareness among patients and families especially important.

Know the Warning Signs: It's About T.I.M.E.

Sepsis symptoms can vary, and they can sometimes resemble symptoms of the underlying infection. Remembering the acronym T.I.M.E. can help patients and families recognize several important warning signs.

T: Temperature

A body temperature that is higher or lower than normal may be a sign that the body is responding to an infection. Pay particular attention when a temperature change occurs alongside other symptoms or when a person's condition appears to be worsening.

I: Infection

A person with sepsis may already have signs or symptoms of an infection. An infection that is not improving or appears to be getting worse despite treatment should not be ignored.

M: Mental Decline

Confusion, unusual sleepiness or difficulty waking someone can indicate a serious change in their condition. Sudden changes in awareness or behavior require immediate medical attention, particularly when an infection is present or suspected.

E: Extremely Ill

Severe pain or discomfort and a feeling that something is seriously wrong may also be warning signs. Patients and caregivers should trust their instincts when an illness appears unusually severe.

"People do not need to experience every warning sign for sepsis to be a concern," says Bilal Khan, MD, MBA, Medical Director of the Blood Management Institute at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and a physician specializing in pulmonary disease, bloodless medicine and transfusion-free surgery, and intensive care. "The concern is when someone with an infection is getting worse instead of better or appears much sicker than expected."

Who Is at Greater Risk?

Anyone with an infection can develop sepsis, but some people face an increased risk, including:

• Older adults
• Infants
• People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer or lung, kidney, liver or heart disease
• People with weakened immune systems
• People who recently experienced a severe illness, surgery or hospitalization
• People with wounds or injuries
• People who previously had sepsis
• People who are pregnant or recently gave birth

Many people who develop sepsis have at least one underlying medical condition or a recent hospitalization. However, sepsis can also occur in otherwise healthy people, making it important for everyone to understand the warning signs.

Why Fast Action Is Critical

Sepsis can progress rapidly. As the body's response to infection intensifies, vital organs may not receive the blood and oxygen they need. This can damage the lungs, kidneys, heart, brain and other organs.

If sepsis is suspected, healthcare providers can perform blood tests, cultures or imaging to look for an infection and signs of organ damage. Treatment may include appropriate antibiotics, intravenous fluids, oxygen and medications to support blood pressure and organ function. In some cases, surgery may be needed.

"Early recognition gives us the opportunity to begin treatment before sepsis causes more extensive damage," says Dr. Khan. "Seeking emergency care does not necessarily mean someone has sepsis, but it allows the care team to quickly evaluate the symptoms and intervene if needed."

If someone has an infection and develops possible signs of sepsis, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Tell the medical team about the infection and ask, "Could this be sepsis?"

Reducing the Risk

It is important to monitor infections closely. Contact a healthcare provider if an infection is not improving and seek emergency care if new or worsening symptoms suggest sepsis.

Sepsis is serious, but awareness and rapid action can save lives. By understanding who is at risk, knowing the warning signs and seeking immediate care, patients and families can help ensure treatment begins as quickly as possible.

RWJBarnabas Health provides comprehensive sepsis care throughout New Jersey. To learn more about sepsis symptoms, treatment and care, visit Sepsis Care at RWJBarnabas Health.