Septic Shock

Septic Shock Pronunciation: Sep-tic Shock (sĕp’tĭk shŏk)

Definition: Septic shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a body-wide infection leads to dangerously low blood pressure. It can lead to the failure of one or more organs, and requires immediate medical attention.

What is Septic Shock?

Overview:

Septic shock is a severe condition that occurs when an infection spreads throughout the body, leading to a dramatic drop in blood pressure. This low blood pressure can result in organs not getting enough blood flow, leading to organ failure.

Key Facts about Septic Shock:

• Septic shock is usually caused by a bacterial infection, but it can also result from other types of infection.
• Symptoms include fever, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, confusion, and low blood pressure.
• Treatment typically includes antibiotics to treat the infection, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, and often, medications to raise blood pressure.
• Septic shock is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Even with aggressive treatment, it can be fatal.

Septic Shock Symptoms & Treatment

Symptoms

Symptoms of septic shock may include fever, confusion, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, and severe low blood pressure.

Treatment

Treatment of septic shock typically involves antibiotics to treat the underlying infection, intravenous fluids to increase blood pressure, and often, medications to raise blood pressure. In severe cases, supportive measures such as mechanical ventilation or dialysis may be necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Septic Shock

What causes septic shock?

Septic shock is usually caused by a severe infection, most commonly a bacterial infection, that has spread throughout the body.

How is septic shock treated?

Treatment for septic shock involves a combination of antibiotics to treat the infection, fluids given intravenously to maintain blood pressure, and medications to increase blood pressure. Supportive care may be necessary in severe cases.

References:

1. MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Septic shock. Retrieved July 26, 2023, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000668.htm