New Delhi: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that happens when the body’s response to an infection gets out of control. It can develop quickly and lead to severe organ dysfunction and death if not treated promptly. In India, the condition is a serious health threat with a rate of 11 million cases and causing 3 million deaths every year. The death rate is 213 per 100,000 people across the country. Sepsis occurs when an infection triggers an overwhelming immune response. This can happen with various types of infections, including those caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Common sources of infection leading to sepsis include pneumonia, urinary tract infections, abdominal infections, and skin infections.
Dr Charudatt Vaity Director of Critical Care Medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central shared with News9“When pathogens enter the bloodstream, the immune system releases chemicals called cytokines to combat the infection. This dysregulation leads to a cascade of inflammatory reactions that can damage tissues and organs. Instead of localising the immune response to the site of infection, the body goes into overdrive, producing an excess of inflammatory markers. This hyper-inflammation can cause blood vessels to become leaky, resulting in fluid loss into surrounding tissues. Consequently, blood pressure drops and vital organs may begin to fail due to inadequate blood flow and oxygenation.”
“As the condition progresses, the body may enter septic shock, characterised by critically low blood pressure and a significant drop in blood flow to organs. This stage is particularly dangerous and requires immediate medical intervention. Symptoms of sepsis can include fever, chills, rapid heart rate, confusion, and difficulty breathing, making it essential to recognise these signs early.”
Risk factors of Sepsis
Risk factors for developing sepsis include age, chronic medical conditions (such as diabetes or cancer), weakened immune systems, and invasive devices like catheters. Understanding these risk factors can help in prevention and early detection.
Dr Vaity, “To combat sepsis, early recognition and treatment are vital. This typically involves administering intravenous fluids and antibiotics as soon as possible. In severe cases, more intensive care may be required, including medications to stabilise blood pressure and support organ function. Sepsis is a complex and dangerous condition triggered by infections that lead to a chaotic immune response. By understanding the causes and recognizing the symptoms early, we can improve outcomes and save lives. Timely intervention is the key to preventing the severe consequences of this potentially fatal condition.”
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