What is Sepsis and How Can You Help fight it?
Sepsis is one of the complications which is firmly coherent with our immune system. It occurs when the body’s response to infection harms the various tissues and organs in the body. When the body is trying to fight infections, there is a release of chemicals directly into the bloodstream.
These chemicals go ahead and trigger responses throughout the body which are inflammatory. It is this inflammation which triggers a lot of changes which in turn causes damages to the organs. In an extreme scenario, these organs can fail. Doctors at FrontLine ER caution you that this is a life-threatening condition. If it is allowed to continue without medical attention, it can lead to a severe drop in blood pressure causing untimely death.
Although sepsis is not a common disease, it is worth noting that everyone can get it. However, the risk is more pronounced among older adults and people who have weaker immune systems. Specifically, people who have HIV/AIDS are at a higher risk of contracting these deadly diseases. However, there is still hope for the people suffering from this illness. If detected early, there are antibiotics and intravenous fluids which can be used to treat it and increase their chances of survival.
Causes
There are some varieties of drug-resistant bacteria which can longer be killed by the antibiotics which used to kill them previously. The bacteria accumulate in the body and trigger this illness. A weakened immune system caused by HIV/AIDS and cancer treatments is a leading cause. Moreover, people who are over sixty-five years old are more prone to be infected by this disease.
Sign and Symptoms
- Difficulties in breathing
- A significant increase in urine
- An abnormal pumping of the heart
- Severe changes in the mental status of an individual
- Increased heart rate exceeding 90 beats per minute
- Increased respiratory rates of more than 20 breaths per minute
When you experience any of the above signs an symptoms, it is good to visit a doctor at FrontLine ER for diagnosis and correct medication. Moreover, those in intensive care units in hospitals are susceptible to getting this complication.
Prevention Methods
Follow The Doctor’s Directions When Using Antibiotics
Never take over the counter drugs without the guidance of a qualified medical doctor. Remember that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are some of the leading causes of this illness. If you do not follow the recommendations of the doctor, there is an increased likelihood of the bacteria becoming resistant to the antibiotics. You are always advised to complete the dose as directed by the doctor at FrontLine ER. Never stop the medication halfway even if your condition improves. Some of the antibiotics works quickly making you feel better even when the bacteria no longer dwell in your body.
If you do not complete the dose, the infection will recur and progress into a more complicated stage. When you start using these antibiotics again, the bacteria might become resistant which will in turn trigger sepsis. To avoid all this, make sure that you follow the doctor’s prescriptions as advised at FrontLine ER.
Ensure That You Are Appropriately Vaccinated
Vaccination reduces the chances of getting infections which ultimately reduces the risk of sepsis. Although bacteria are the significant causes of sepsis, viral infections can also trigger this condition. If you are properly vaccinated, you will have a stronger immune system capable of dealing with viral infections. Lack of vaccination can make your body struggle when getting rid of these foreign bodies. Thus, you need vaccinations as it will help you fight viral infection and prevent sepsis.
Vaccines tend to build antibodies used to fight the various viruses. Resultantly, you have a lower risk of getting infections which might cause your immune system to overreact. Thus you will minimize the risk of sepsis. If you think that you are at the risk of getting sepsis, you need to talk with your doctor and see which vaccination and be of help to you. Remember that even if you had a previous vaccination, the doctor could still advise you to have a repeat dose. Some vaccinations do not last forever.
Always Wash Your Hands
Good hygiene which involves cleaning your hands regularly. The practice prevents the spread of bacteria and viruses which can attack your immune system. When washing your hands, always use running water which is warm and soapy. Lather your hands to remove germs and bacteria. Always remove the dirt which might be trapped between your fingers and underneath your nails.
Washing hands should not take less than 20 seconds. The exercise is particularly important after visiting washrooms, playing with pets and before preparing or eating food. Also, you need to wash your hands after sneezing, blowing your nose and after coughing.
Always Seek Treatment for All the Infections
It is the simplest way of avoiding this disease. You are advised to seek treatment at FrontLine ER as early as possible. Never take drugs without the prescription of a doctor. Remember that untreated infections make your immune system to be weak and prone to more diseases. Eventually, you will suffer from sepsis.
