Sepsis is a response to infection. In some cases, the body has an extreme reaction to the chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight invaders, and the changes that occur cause multi-system organ damage. When sepsis progresses to this point, it is called septic shock. This medical emergency can lead to death if not treated promptly.

Advertisement
1.

Causes of Septic Shock

The most common cause of septic shock is a hospital-acquired infection. Immunocompromised patients, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses are more at risk. Septic shock can also occur after surgery if the surgical site becomes infected. Toxic shock is an uncommon form of septic shock caused by staph and strep infections.

Sepsis Septic Shock Justin Paget / Getty Images

Advertisement
2.

Predisposing Factors

Predisposing risk factors for septic shock include diseases of the intestinal, biliary, respiratory, or urinary systems and those that weaken the immune system. Leukemia, lymphoma, and a history of organ or bone marrow transplant also increase one's risk. Sepsis can quickly advance to septic shock in newborn babies, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Predisposing Risk Factors FatCamera / Getty Images

Advertisement
3.

It Can Happen to Anyone

Some people are at greater risk of septic shock than others, but because infection causes it,

Advertisement

David Sacks / Getty Images[/caption] Septic shock results in a sudden and sharp decrease in blood pressure, which affects the [citation href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000668.htm" title="Medline Plus" desc="Septic Shock"]brain, heart, liver, kidneys, intestines, and other systems[/citation]. Symptoms include fever, chills, low blood pressure when standing, pale extremities, little or no urine output, elevated heart rate, lethargy, palpitations, confusion, restlessness, skin rashes, and decreased cognition. [caption id="attachment_1053384" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Richard Bailey / Getty Images[/caption] Doctors confirm diagnoses of septic shock with [citation href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000668.htm" title="Medline Plus" desc="Septic Shock"]multiple blood tests[/citation], including blood chemistry, blood count, low oxygen level, and acid-base disturbances. Blood culture results reveal the bacteria causing the infection but may take a few days to return a positive result. Other tests include chest x-rays to evaluate the lungs for pneumonia and urine samples to detect infection. [caption id="attachment_1053385" align="alignnone" width="1024"] blueshot / Getty Images[/caption] Immediate treatment is key: the predominant goal is to treat sepsis in time to avoid septic shock altogether. The initial treatment is broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the infection until blood cultures reveal the specific organism responsible. The first six hours are the most important to a good prognosis. Septic shock incidence is halved with [citation href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5389495/ title="The Eurasian Journal of Medicine" desc="Sepsis and Septic Shock: Current Treatment Strategies and New Approaches">prompt and appropriate antibiotic use, regardless of the underlying disease.

IV antibiotics treatment dblight / Getty Images

Advertisement
5.

Increasing Blood Volume

Once a patient progresses from sepsis to septic shock, the main treatment goal is to

Advertisement
7.

Prognosis

Prognosis heavily depends on how quickly the medical team initiates treatment. Today, septic shock mortality is between 30 and 40 percent. Poorer outcomes occur when treatment is not immediate and aggressive. If multi-system organ failure develops or if metabolic processes like lactic or metabolic acidosis are not well controlled, reversing septic shock is exceptionally difficult and often results in fatalities.

Recovery Outlook Prognosis JohnnyGreig / Getty Images

Advertisement
8.

Prevention and Possible Complications

In some cases, it is impossible to avoid septic shock. The best prevention is the prompt and effective treatment of bacterial infections. Anyone showing signs of sepsis or septic shock should seek emergency treatment right away.

Even recovered individuals face possible complications. The organs can be permanently damaged, and gangrene may occur if fluids are not adequately administered to extremities.

Emergency Room Treatment Marco_Piunti / Getty Images
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Did you find this page helpful?
YesNo
logo

Why Facty?

With a dedicated team of over 75, including writers, editors, and medical experts, we’re committed to bringing you the most comprehensive, up-to-date health information you can rely on.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Popular Now on Facty Health


Disclaimer

This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information on this site as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for, professional counseling care, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.