Blood poisoning is a severe infection that occurs when bacteria enters the bloodstream. medical professionals often utilize the term to describe sepsis or septicemia. Always bear in mind that this is a deadly infection.
Blood poisoning can rapidly progress to sepsis. Immediate diagnosis and treatment are vital in managing the condition.
The presence of bacteria in the blood is called septicemia. While in the state of septicemia, it can lead to sepsis. When it comes to sepsis, it is a severe and often dangerous state of infection if not promptly treated.
What are the indications?
- Moderate or high fever
- Chills
- Paleness
- Rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate or palpitations
Some of these symptoms are linked with the flu or other ailments. Nevertheless, if the individual had a recent surgery or recovering from a wound, a doctor must be consulted right after experiencing these indications.
The advanced symptoms of blood poisoning might be dangerous and include:
- Shock
- Confusion
- Red spots on the skin
- Reduced or no production of urine
Take note that blood poisoning can result to respiratory distress syndrome and even septic shock. If the condition is not treated right away, these complications can lead to death.
Management
Immediate treatment for blood poisoning is vital due to the rapid spread of infection to the tissues or the heart valves. If diagnosed with blood poisoning, treatment is starts as an inpatient in a healthcare facility.
If there are indications of shock, the individual is admitted to the intensive care unit. The indications of shock include:
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Paleness
- Dizziness or loss of consciousness
- Rapid, shallow breathing
Oxygen and fluids might be administered intravenously to maintain a healthy blood pressure and help the body eliminate the infection. Since blood clots are another issue of concern, plasma is given to correct this. In severe cases, surgery is often needed.
Medications are also used to manage blood poisoning such as insulin, antibiotics and vasopressors. Insulin might be given to restore the blood sugar to normal levels while vasopressors help increase the blood pressure if it is too low.