We’ve got your back: Five things to know about your spine
JUN 27, 2022Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
Read More Additional information about 5 things to know about your spine | St. Joseph HealthIf you have an infection, your body can develop a life-threatening reaction known as sepsis. Sepsis takes more than 258,000 American lives each year according to the Centers for Disease Control. Here’s what you need to know about sepsis and how you can spot the symptoms.
Sepsis occurs when your immune system responds to an infection in an extreme manner that causes inflammation throughout the body. Something as simple as an untreated cut or as serious as improper healing from a procedure can provoke the response.
Typically, sepsis develops in people who are already sick and have weakened immune systems, such as seniors and infants. It progresses rapidly and can cause tissue damage, organ failure, and death if not promptly treated.
Sepsis can develop in anyone who has almost any infection. The four types of infections most commonly linked with sepsis include:
If your body already has one of these infections, it can start a chain reaction that leads to sepsis.
Though no one is immune to sepsis, some people have a higher risk, including:
While this condition can seem daunting, there are ways to lower your risk of developing this reaction.
You can remember the symptoms of sepsis easily with the acronym TIME.
Temperature: higher or lower than normal
Infection: May have signs and symptoms of an infection
Mental Decline: confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse
Extremely Ill: severe pain, discomfort, shortness of breath
Recognizing the signs of sepsis can save your life. If you or someone you know is showing any of the above symptoms, don’t waste another minute. Locate your nearest St. Joseph Health emergency room now to get quality care when you need it most.
Sources:
Sepsis Alliance
Healthline | Sepsis
CDC | Sepsis
CDC | Protect Your Patients From Sepsis
Five interesting facts from St. Joseph Health that you should know about your spine.
Read More Additional information about 5 things to know about your spine | St. Joseph HealthThese five cherry recipes will have you running to the orchard to pick a whole bunch. The fruit’s health benefits make these tasty delicacies even more enticing.
Read More Additional information about Healthy cherry-based recipes | St. Joseph HealthMany people missed their recommended cancer screenings in 2020, but new interest in wellness may be the key to reprioritizing preventive health.
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