Understanding the Stages of Sepsis
Understand the stages of sepsis, from early infection to severe complications. Learn how prompt recognition and treatment can improve outcomes and support recovery during this critical condition
Sepsis is a serious medical condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection spirals out of control, leading to widespread inflammation and potential organ failure. It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Understanding the stages of sepsis can help you recognise the symptoms early and seek medical attention in time.
What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is not an infection itself but rather the body’s extreme reaction to an infection—bacterial, viral, or fungal. When the immune system overreacts, it can damage tissues and organs, leading to severe complications.
Sepsis progresses in three main stages:
1. Sepsis
2. Severe Sepsis
3. Septic Shock
Each stage has distinct symptoms and requires urgent medical care.
Stage 1: Sepsis
Sepsis begins when an infection triggers a strong immune response. Common infections that can lead to sepsis include:
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Skin infections
- Abdominal infections (like appendicitis)
Symptoms of Sepsis
Look out for these signs, especially if you have an ongoing infection:
- Fever (above 101°F or below 96.8°F)
- Fast heart rate (more than 90 beats per minute)
- Rapid breathing (more than 20 breaths per minute)
- Confusion or disorientation
- Extreme fatigue
If you notice these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Early treatment can prevent progression to severe sepsis.
Consult Top Specialists
Stage 2: Severe Sepsis
If sepsis is not treated, it can progress to severe sepsis, where organ dysfunction begins. This means one or more organs (like the kidneys, heart, or lungs) start failing.
- Symptoms of Severe Sepsis
- Difficulty breathing (due to lung failure)
- Low urine output (kidney failure)
- Sudden confusion or dizziness (brain dysfunction)
- Severe abdominal pain
- Abnormal blood clotting (leading to bruising or bleeding)
At this stage, hospitalisation is critical. Doctors may administer IV antibiotics, fluids, and oxygen support.
Stage 3: Septic Shock
The most dangerous stage is septic shock, where blood pressure drops dangerously low, and organs fail despite treatment. This can be fatal if not managed urgently.
Symptoms of Septic Shock
- Extremely low blood pressure (not improving with fluids)
- Cold, clammy skin
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty staying awake
Septic shock requires intensive care, including medications to stabilise blood pressure and life support if needed.
Who is at Risk?
While anyone can develop sepsis, some people are at higher risk:
- Older adults (65+)
- Infants and young children
- People with weakened immune systems (diabetes, cancer, HIV)
- Those with chronic illnesses (kidney disease, lung disease)
- Recent surgery or hospitalisation patients
How to Prevent Sepsis?
Here’s how you can prevent sepsis:
1. Treat Infections Early: Don’t ignore infections; seek medical help.
2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands regularly, keep wounds clean.
3. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations: Flu, pneumonia, and other vaccines help prevent infections.
4. Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep diabetes, heart disease, etc., under control.
5. Know the Signs: Early recognition saves lives.
When to See a Doctor?
If you or a loved one has an infection and develops:
- High fever with chills
- Extreme weakness or confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Low urine output
Do not wait—seek emergency care immediately.
How Apollo 24|7 Can Help?
If you suspect sepsis or have recurring infections, consult a doctor right away. Apollo 24|7 offers:
- Expert consultations with specialists
- Lab tests to detect infections early
- Emergency care support
You can book a consultation or schedule tests through the Apollo 24|7 app or website for quick and reliable healthcare.
Conclusion
Sepsis is a medical emergency, and recognising its stages can save lives. Stay vigilant, act fast, and prioritise early treatment. If you have any concerns about infections or sepsis symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sunil Nigam
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
48 Years • MBBS, MD ( General Medicine)
New Delhi
VIVA VISION, New Delhi
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr. Sunil Nigam
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
48 Years • MBBS, MD ( General Medicine)
New Delhi
VIVA VISION, New Delhi
