6 Signs of Possible Sepsis in Seniors

Sepsis is a serious health condition, and can be fatal if not treated properly. Some seniors are more prone to this illness due to weakened immune systems and other health conditions that may be present. In this blog, we will learn more about sepsis, and ways to recognize whether your older loved one might have contracted it.

What is Sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that results from a complication of an infection. The illness occurs when chemicals being released into the blood stream to fight infection cause inflammation to organs and other parts of the body. This inflammation can cause organ failure, sometimes leading to death. People over the age of 65 with health conditions are 13 times more susceptible to developing sepsis.

Here are 6 signs that your older loved one may have developed sepsis. If you see any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention at once.

Fast Breathing

If your loved one suddenly develops shortness of breath, or labored breathing, an unknown infection that has led to sepsis may be present in their blood stream. Should this occur, have your loved one sit down, and try to remain at calm as possible.

Call 911 if they are having difficulty breathing, or if possible, take them to the nearest emergency room.

Medical professionals will be able help stabilize your loved one’s breathing and address a possible infection.

Shivering

Another sign of severe infection and possibly sepsis is shivering. If your loved one suddenly feels very cold and develops a shiver, something is wrong that must be addressed at once. Shivering is often an indication that an infection is present, as the body attempts to stay warm.

If your loved one develops a shiver, seemingly out of nowhere, do all you can to keep them warm with blankets or by turning up the heat. As soon as they are comfortable enough, get them to an emergency room, or doctor quickly.

Infection Specific Symptoms

Sepsis may be suspected through symptoms that are specific to certain infections. For example, pain when urinating could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, or a chronic cough might indicate pneumonia.

With older people, a “wait and see” approach to medical conditions should never be taken. Sepsis can easily develop from seemingly unrelated symptoms. Seek medical attention at once should your loved one exhibit even the slightest sign of an infection.

Septic Shock

An unknown case of sepsis can eventually turn to septic shock. Knowing these symptoms of septic shock could possibly save your loved one’s life.

• Being Unable to Stand
• Extreme Fatigue
• Extreme Confusion
• Shakes or Chills
• Very Low Blood Pressure