Sepsis is a serious condition that occurs when infection spreads into the blood. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommends that you receive immediate medical attention if you think you have this.
“When sepsis(a blood infection) occurs, it should be treated as a medical emergency,” CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said in an agency news release. “Doctors and nurses can help prevent sepsis and its devastating effects.
The blood infection can start as a small and localized infection. Recognizing the symptoms are the best way to control sepsis. Signs of infection include swelling, redness, warmth, and drainage from the infected area.
Common infections of the feet, if left untreated, could lead to sepsis:
These infections should be treated by consulting with a doctor and taking prescribed antibiotics. Consequently, if these smaller infections are left untreated, they can spread to other parts of the body. Ultimately, this can lead to bone and blood infections.
Symptoms of sepsis include, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and shortness of breath. This is a very serious infection. It may require longer treatment with intravenous antibiotics, as well as admission to the hospital. If these blood infections are not treated properly, they can lead to death.
Patient’s most at risk:
- Very Young
- Elderly
- Patients undergoing chemotherapy
- Diabetics
- Patients requiring immunosuppresive drugs
- Patients with HIV
If you think that you may have sepsis contact a doctor ASAP it could save your life!
Hollowbrook Foot Specialist serving the Hudson Valley from Wappingers Falls. Call us at (845) 298-9074 for your preferred appointment.
By: Samantha DelRegno D.P.M.
