Sepsis

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening response to infection. During sepsis, the infected cells stimulate the release of immune substances into the bloodstream, which travel throughout the body causing widespread inflammation.

Sepsis affects more than a million Americans each year. It’s dangerous, as it can cause blood clots, leaky blood vessels, tissue damage, organ failure and even death. Get the fast treatment you need at Goshen Hospital Emergency Department. Our board certified emergency physicians and nurses work together to prevent infection and sepsis.

What causes sepsis and how to recognize it

Any infection can trigger sepsis, but bacteria are the most common cause. Most often, sepsis results from bloodstream infections, pneumonia, kidney infections and abdominal infections. Infants, older adults, intensive care unit (ICU) patients and people with chronic medical conditions or compromised immune systems have a higher risk of developing sepsis.

How do you know if you have sepsis? Sepsis symptoms develop and progress quickly. They include:

• Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
• Abdominal pain
• Confusion or disorientation
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Shivering or feeling very cold
• Sweaty or clammy skin

Most people who develop sepsis are already in the hospital. However, come to our emergency room if you have been in the hospital, had surgery or had an infection and develop these symptoms. Even if you don’t have sepsis, getting help early usually leads to a better outcome.

Sepsis treatment at our emergency room

At Goshen Hospital Emergency Department, our compassionate, highly trained team works quickly to control sepsis. You will be hospitalized and may receive any of these treatments:

• IV antibiotics
• Oxygen
• Treatment to maintain blood pressure and blood flow to organs
• Mechanical breathing
• Kidney dialysis
• Surgery

We understand that a diagnosis of sepsis can be scary. Rely on our team to use the latest tools and technologies – along with compassionate care – to help you recover from sepsis.