Sepsis is an excessive response by the body to an infection. Normally, our immune system fights off infections, but sometimes, for reasons we do not yet understand, it attacks our own organs and tissues.

Sepsis can progress rapidly and lead to septic shock, so it must be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible, as every hour without treatment increases the risk of death.

Sepsis causes a series of very serious symptoms that can affect every organ in the body. These symptoms include a drop in blood pressure, increased respiratory and heart rates, impaired brain function, and blood clotting disorders. As a result, organs begin to fail, cease to function normally, and blood circulation becomes impaired.

There is no single medication to treat sepsis. Treatment is tailored to the severity of the condition, and its goal is to halt and reverse the process. The first step is the early administration of appropriate antibiotics and intravenous fluids. Additionally, vital functions are maintained through complementary supportive care.

Many patients with sepsis are admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring of their vital signs and any potentially affected organs.

Sepsis can cause physical problems that may interfere with daily activities, such as difficulty walking, muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, joint pain or stiffness, shortness of breath, and even amputations.

Sepsis can damage the brain and the nervous system. This brain damage cannot be detected on an MRI and can manifest in various ways.

As a result of sepsis and their stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), many survivors experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression or nightmares.

After sepsis, various aspects of daily life may be affected, which may mean you have to reorganise your daily routines. This can also have an impact on your social relationships.