Sepsis, also known as blood poisoning, is where the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection and starts attacking the organs and tissues. It is important to recognise and treat the symptoms of sepsis, as if left unattended it can be life-threatening.
The signs and symptoms of sepsis include:
- An altered mental state (confusion and slow processing)
- Extreme shivering and muscle pain
- Failure to pass urine in the last 18 hours
- Breathlessness, increased breathing or heart rate
- Reduced blood pressure
- A feeling of discomfort or unease
- A non-blanching rash or blue tinge of the lips, skin or tongue
People with a reduced immune system, the elderly (over 75) or the very young (under one), anyone who has had a recent invasive procedure, or anyone pregnant in the last 6 weeks are at increased risk of sepsis.
If a patient visits us with a bacterial infection, they will be offered treatment which may include antibiotics or drainage of the tooth. In each instance, the patient will be offered a review appointment to check on the progress of the infection. Patients who have had a bacterial infection that does not respond to antibiotics or drainage, should be aware of sepsis symptoms and call the surgery on 01329 280 815 if they have any concerns if this is prior to their review. If this is outside of working hours, please call 111.
If Sepsis is suspected it will be treated as a medical emergency, and we will call 999. If you are in the surgery, we will monitor you and provide emergency oxygen if necessary.
All staff are trained on a regular basis to look out for signs of sepsis. We also have posters in the waiting rooms and surgeries.
If you would like to know more about Sepsis, please go to the NHS website or The UK Sepsis Trust
