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What is sepsis?

Sepsis, sometimes called Septicemia or blood poisoning, is a life-threatening reaction to an infection that can lead to tissue damage, multiple organ failure and sometimes death, especially if it’s not spotted early and treated promptly. This happens when the body’s immune system overreacts to the infection.

Sepsis is a medical emergency, and you should call 999 or 112 as soon as possible if you suspect you or someone else has Sepsis.

Sepsis symptoms:

The symptoms of Sepsis vary from person to person and can differ between adults, children, and babies. If you notice any of the below symptoms in yourself or someone else, call 999 or go straight to A&E for urgent medical attention.

An adult may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Acting confused, having slurred speech or not making senss.
  • Extreme shivering or muscle pain.
  • Blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue – this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet with brown or black skin.
  • Passing no urine in a day.
  • A rash that doesn’t fade when you roll a glass over it.
  • Difficulty breathing, breathlessness, or breathing very fast.
  • An increased heart rate.
  • Body swelling.

You should also call 999 or 112 if you, your child, or someone else is showing the below signs or you’re concerned about an infection. If you’re unsure if it’s Sepsis, don’t worry. It’s still best to call 999 or112. They can advise you on what to do and arrange a phone call from a nurse or doctor or call an ambulance.

Signs you should call 999 or 112 if you or someone else is:

  • Feeling very unwell or there’s something seriously wrong.
  • Not urinating all day (for adults and older children) or in the last 12 hours (for babies and young children).
  • Vomiting and can’t keep any food or fluids down.
  • Noticing swelling or pain around a cut or wound.
  • Having a very high or low temperature, feeling hot or cold to touch or shivering.