The three stages of sepsis are known as sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock.
Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory response to an infection. It is a serious medical condition that can occur when the body’s response to an infection is out of balance. Symptoms may include fever, increased heart rate, increased breathing rate, increased white blood cell count, and confusion. Treatment includes antibiotics and/or surgery, depending on the cause of the infection.
Severe sepsis is a life-threatening complication of sepsis. It occurs when the body’s inflammatory response to an infection is so severe that it begins to damage other organs and systems in the body. Symptoms include severe difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and organ failure. Treatment may include antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and/or surgery.
Septic shock is an extreme complication of sepsis and severe sepsis. It is characterized by a severe drop in blood pressure, which can lead to organ failure and death. Symptoms include low blood pressure, organ failure, and shock. Treatment includes antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and/or surgery, as well as supportive care such as oxygen, dialysis, and mechanical ventilation.
In all three stages of sepsis, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early recognition and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the risk of death.