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Sepsis
The body's extreme, life-threatening response to an infection that can lead to organ failure. Early recognition and treatment are critical.
Causes & risk factors
- Lung infections (pneumonia)
- Urine infections
- Abdominal infections
- Skin and wound infections
- Any infection that spreads
Common symptoms
- Fever or very low temperature
- Fast breathing and heart rate
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Very low urine output
- Mottled or clammy skin
- Breathlessness
Tests & diagnosis
- Complete blood count
- CRP
- Blood cultures
- Creatinine
- Lactate level
Treatment & management
- Call your local emergency number — sepsis is time-critical
- Early intravenous antibiotics
- Intravenous fluids to support blood pressure
- Oxygen and organ support in intensive care if needed
- Finding and treating the source of infection
When to see a doctor urgently
- Call your local emergency number now for confusion, very fast breathing or mottled skin with an infection
- Seek urgent care for a high fever with drowsiness or reduced urination
- Act fast — early treatment greatly improves survival
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about sepsis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Who is most at risk of sepsis?
The very young, older adults, pregnant women and people with weak immunity or chronic illness are at higher risk.
How quickly does sepsis develop?
It can develop within hours, so any infection with warning signs needs urgent assessment.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.