Septicaemia

Septicaemia is a serious condition in which bacterial toxins enter the bloodstream from another part of the body such as the lungs, resulting in blood poisoning. If this infection is not treated in a prompt manner the individual will develop the life-threatening condition, sepsis.

Symptoms for septicaemia include;

• Fever
• Chills
• Rapid breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid heart rate
• Confusion
• Red spots on the skin

Sepsis results in body-wide inflammation, as a result of untreated septicaemia. If this is not treated immediately individuals often die from septic shock, due to a decrease in blood pressure.

Blood cultures can be taken to confirm that Septicaemia is present. Treatment for Septicaemia can include antibiotics, oxygen and blood and fluid transfusions. Usually, if a patient has Septicaemia then a hospital stay is required.