Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection. Instead of fighting the infection locally, the immune response triggers widespread inflammation, damaging tissues and organs. It is not an infection itself, it’s the body’s extreme reaction to one.
Causes
Sepsis can arise from almost any infection, but common triggers include:
- Lung infections e.g., pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Abdominal infections e.g., appendicitis, peritonitis
- Skin infections e.g., cellulitis, infected wounds
- Post-surgical infections
Early Symptoms
Sepsis can progress quickly, so recognising early warning signs is vital.
The UK’s Sepsis Trust uses the acronym SEPSIS:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering or muscle pain
- Passing no urine (in a day)
- Severe breathlessness
- It feels like you’re going to die
- Skin mottled or discoloured
Even mild symptoms in a recently unwell person can be a red flag.
Progression Stages
- Sepsis – Body’s immune system reacts abnormally to infection.
- Severe Sepsis – Organ dysfunction begins (e.g., low urine output, altered mental state).
- Septic Shock – Dangerous drop in blood pressure, multiple organ failure, high risk of death.
Risk Factors
Some people are more vulnerable to sepsis:
- Newborns and elderly adults
- People with weakened immune systems
- Those with chronic diseases (diabetes, kidney/liver disease, cancer)
- Recent surgery or hospitalisation
- Use of invasive devices (catheters, IV lines)
Diagnosis & Treatment
- Diagnosis – based on symptoms, blood tests, cultures, imaging to find infection source.
- Treatment – usually in hospital:
- Immediate antibiotics (within 1 hour of suspicion)
- IV fluids
- Oxygen therapy
- Surgery to remove source of infection (if needed)
- Intensive care for severe cases
Long-Term Impact
Survivors can experience Post-Sepsis Syndrome (PSS), which may include:
Chronic fatigue
• Memory/concentration problems
• Recurrent infections
• Anxiety, depression, PTSD-like symptoms
How Sepsis Links to Personal Injury Claims
If sepsis develops or worsens because:
- Symptoms were missed or misdiagnosed
- Treatment was delayed
- Wrong antibiotics or inadequate care were given
…it may be considered medical negligence.
In such cases, solicitors like Harris Fowler can help victims (or families) seek compensation to cover ongoing medical costs, loss of income, and the emotional/physical toll.
Next Steps
- Contact Harris Fowler for a free consultation – available 24/7 on 0800 213 214 – to discuss your situation.
- Gather evidence: medical records, timelines of events, and any financial impact documentation (e.g., loss of earnings, medical bills, care needs).
- Act promptly: remember the usual three-year time limit, starting sooner helps preserve evidence and strengthens your claim.
