Sepsis

What happens in sepsis?

Sepsis is when your body's defence system (immune system) goes wrong. Instead of just fighting an infection, it starts attacking your own body too. This can damage your organs and is very dangerous.

You cannot catch sepsis from another person. It happens when an infection you already have gets much worse.

Why is sepsis serious?

Sepsis can be life-threatening. It can happen very quickly and is hard to spot because the symptoms look like many other illnesses, such as flu or a chest infection.

The key thing to remember is: trust your instincts. If you think something is seriously wrong, get help straight away.

Red flag symptoms - when to call 999

For babies and young children

Call 999 or go to A&E straight away if a baby or young child has any of these symptoms:

• Blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue (on darker skin, check palms and soles of feet)
• A rash that doesn't fade when you press a glass against it
• Finding it hard to breathe, making grunting sounds, or their tummy sucking in under their ribs
• A weak, high-pitched cry that's not normal for them
• Not responding normally, not interested in feeding or playing
• Much more sleepy than usual or hard to wake up

For adults and older children

Call 999 or go to A&E straight away if someone has any of these symptoms:

• Acting confused, slurred speech, or not making sense
• Blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue (on darker skin, check palms and soles of feet)
• A rash that doesn't fade when you press a glass against it
• Finding it hard to breathe or breathing very fast

Important: Don't drive to A&E yourself. Ask someone else to drive you or call 999 for an ambulance. Take any medicines you're taking with you.

When to call 111

Call 111 straight away if you or someone you care for:

• Feels very unwell or like something is seriously wrong
• Hasn't passed urine all day (adults) or in 12 hours (babies)
• Keeps being sick and can't keep food or milk down
• Has swelling or pain around a cut or wound
• Has a very high or low temperature, feels hot or cold, or is shivering

Don't worry if you're not sure it's sepsis - it's better to be safe. NHS 111 can help you decide what to do.

Who finds it harder to spot sepsis?

Sepsis can be especially difficult to notice in:

• Babies and young children
• People with dementia
• People with learning disabilities
• People who have trouble communicating

If you care for someone in these groups, watch them extra carefully for any changes.

What to remember

Sepsis symptoms can look like other common illnesses. The most important thing is to trust your gut feeling. If you think someone is getting much worse or something feels seriously wrong, don't wait - get medical help.

Speak to your GP if you're worried about any symptoms that don't seem to be getting better, even if they seem mild.

---

Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.