Sepsis vs. Infection: Know the Signs, Save a Life

A simple infection can sometimes become a life-threatening medical emergency. That's why understanding the warning signs of sepsis is so important. At North Oaks Health, we want patients and families to know when to seek care and when symptoms should never be ignored.

If you or a loved one has an infection and suddenly develops confusion, difficulty breathing, severe weakness, fever with chills, or simply seems much sicker than expected, seek medical attention immediately. Sepsis can progress quickly, but early diagnosis and treatment can save lives.

Sepsis vs. Infection: What's the Difference?

Many people use the terms "infection" and "sepsis" interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.

An infection occurs when harmful germs such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi enter the body and begin to multiply. Common infections include pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), skin infections, and the flu. Most infections can be treated successfully with proper medical care.

Sepsis is the body's extreme and potentially life-threatening response to an infection. Instead of fighting the infection normally, the immune system overreacts and can begin damaging the body's own tissues and organs. Without prompt treatment, sepsis may lead to organ failure, septic shock, and death.

Think of it this way: an infection is the problem, while sepsis is a dangerous complication that can occur when the body responds to that infection in an unhealthy way.

How Does Sepsis Develop?

Sepsis can develop from almost any infection, but it is most commonly associated with bacterial infections of the lungs, urinary tract, skin, digestive system, or bloodstream.

While some people have a higher risk of developing sepsis, it can affect anyone at any age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that at least 1.7 million adults and more than 18,000 children in the U.S. develop sepsis each year.

Those at increased risk include:

• Adults age 65 and older
• Infants and young children
• People with diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, or other chronic conditions
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• Patients recovering from surgery or serious illness

The challenge is that sepsis often develops quickly and can initially appear to be a worsening infection. Recognizing the early warning signs can make a critical difference.

Early Signs of Sepsis You Should Never Ignore

Seek immediate medical attention if you have an infection or are recovering from one and experience any of the following signs and symptoms:

• Fever, chills, or a very low body temperature
• Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
• Fast heart rate
• Sudden confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
• Extreme fatigue or severe weakness
• Dizziness or feeling faint
• Severe pain or discomfort
• Clammy, sweaty, pale, or discolored skin

Many patients who develop sepsis describe feeling that something is seriously wrong, even before they can explain exactly what they are experiencing. Trust your instincts and seek medical care if symptoms rapidly worsen.

When Should You Go to the Emergency Room?

Sepsis is a medical emergency. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own if you notice:

• Confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe weakness
• Signs of shock, such as dizziness or fainting
• A serious infection that is getting worse despite treatment

Immediate treatment with medications, intravenous fluids, and other supportive care can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of serious complications.

Reducing Your Risk of Sepsis

Not all cases of sepsis can be prevented, but the CDC recommends taking these steps to help lower your risk:

• Washing your hands regularly
• Staying current on recommended vaccines
• Properly cleaning and monitoring wounds
• Managing chronic health conditions
• Seeking medical attention when an infection is not improving or appears to be worsening

Expert Care When Sepsis Strikes

Infection and sepsis are not the same. An infection occurs when germs enter the body, while sepsis is the body's dangerous reaction to that infection. Because sepsis can worsen rapidly, knowing the warning signs and seeking care immediately can save lives.

At North Oaks Health, our emergency and specialty care teams are prepared to quickly evaluate and treat severe infections and sepsis. If you think you or a loved one may have sepsis, don't wait. Seek emergency medical care right away.

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What type of care should you seek when? Learn the difference between urgent care and the emergency room here.

Find out more about emergency care at North Oaks here.