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Septic shock

Septic shock is an extremely life-threatening condition that occurs when your blood pressure drops to a dangerously low level following an infection. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to get septic shock.

Initially, the infection can cause Sepsis, but if it’s left untreated, the toxins produced by bacteria can damage the small blood vessels, causing them to leak fluid into the surrounding tissues. This can affect your heart’s ability to pump blood to your organs, which lowers your blood pressure and means blood doesn’t reach vital organs, such as the brain and liver.

Septic shock is a medical emergency, call 999 or 112 urgently if you or someone else is showing signs of septic shock including:

  • A severe drop in blood pressure that causes dizziness when standing up.
  • A change in mental state such as extreme confusion or disorientation.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Strong sleepiness or trouble staying awake.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Cold, clammy and pale skin.

If you have septic shock, you may be transferred to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to help support your body’s functions and organs while you undergo treatment.

The treatment usually involves one of the following, depending on what’s best suited to you:

  • Oxygen therapy.
  • Fluids given through a vein (intravenously).
  • Medications to help increase blood flow.
  • Some antibiotics.
  • Surgery (in some cases).

” Septic shock can be fatal. It’s a serious health condition that needs treating urgently. “