What May Increase The Risk Of Sepsis?

Sepsis seems to be a fairly serious condition. Patients may have it if their body responds abnormally to an infection. Doctors should confirm that patient has an infection first. If they have one, they may then measure the patient's blood pressure and respiration rate. Sepsis may cause a systolic reading of less than 100 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). A patient's respiration rate seems to have to be at least twenty-two breaths a minute for sepsis to be possible. Some individuals may also experience issues with their mental state.

Most patients seem to need fast sepsis treatment. This may prevent septic shock. It appears that treatment starts with intravenous antibiotics for sepsis. Other sepsis medications may include vasopressors and pain medication. Patients may benefit from supportive care for sepsis as well. However, the best treatment for sepsis can vary depending on the cause.

Bacteremia

Bacteremia seems to be a condition where an individual's blood is contaminated. Specifically, it may happen when bacteria contaminate their blood. Some possible causes may include surgery, infections, and catheters left in place for too long. Some underlying conditions may increase the risk of bacteremia. Of course, this may also increase the risk of sepsis as a result. Symptoms of bacteremia may include chills, fever, and weakness. Patients may experience dizziness, confusion, skin redness, and a purple rash also.

Urine and blood tests may help doctors find the bacteria responsible for this condition. Patients may need their catheter removed, and antibiotics may be prescribed as well. Some individuals with this condition may need surgery if they do not work. Patients with a catheter may want to wash their hands before and after touching it as well. Changing dressings regularly seems to help as well. Patients appear to need emergency care if they have trouble breathing or are not urinating much.

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Kidney Infection

It seems that kidney infections may increase the risk of sepsis. These infections may be caused by kidney surgery or urinary tract infections that spread. Women may be at a higher risk of this condition than men. Using a catheter appears to increase an individual's risk as well. Some symptoms seem to be back pain, painful urination, pain in the abdomen, and groin or side pain. Patients may find blood or pus in their urine. Other symptoms may include cloudy urine, fever, chills, and a persistent need to urinate.

Urine and blood tests seem to help doctors diagnose a kidney infection. They may detect the presence of bacteria. Some patients may need imaging tests as well. Kidney infection treatment may start with antibiotics. Patients may need the hospital for severe infections. Repeated infections may require more help. This may mean being evaluated for urinary tract abnormalities or other conditions.

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