septikemia

Septikemia, also known as sepsis, is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues. It is not an infection itself but rather a severe complication of an existing infection. When a person has an infection, such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection, or a skin infection, the body's immune system typically fights it off. However, in sepsis, the immune response goes into overdrive, leading to widespread inflammation throughout the body.

This inflammation can cause blood clots to form, which can block oxygen from reaching vital organs. It can also cause blood vessels to leak, leading to a drop in blood pressure. If left untreated, sepsis can rapidly progress to septic shock, a critical condition where blood pressure drops so low that it can no longer sustain adequate blood flow to organs. This can result in organ failure and, if not managed promptly and effectively, death.

Symptoms of sepsis can vary widely and may include fever or chills, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, confusion or disorientation, extreme pain or discomfort, and clammy or sweaty skin. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for survival and recovery. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to combat the infection, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, and medications to support organ function. The source of the infection also needs to be identified and addressed, which may involve surgery or drainage of an abscess.