Skip to main content

What causes sepsis?

Sepsis happens when your body’s immune system responds abnormally to an infection, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Your immune system works to fight any germs such as bacteria and viruses and helps to prevent infection. However, sometimes, the immune system goes into overdrive and starts to attack our organs and other tissues.

It can happen as a response to any injury or infection and can be triggered by:

  • A chest infection that causes Pneumonia.
  • A urine infection in the bladder.
  • A problem in the abdomen, such as a burst ulcer or a hole in the bowel.
  • An infected cut or bite.
  • A wound from trauma or surgery.
  • A leg Ulcer or Cellulitis.

The infection can start anywhere in your body – it may be in one part or widespread – but the most common parts of the body affected are:

  •  Lungs.
  • Urinary tract.
  • Tummy (or abdomen).
  • Pelvis.
  •  Skin.

” The source of the infection can’t always be identified. “