Sepsis is a very dangerous condition, often referred to as a blood disorder or disease. Essentially, it is the body’s extreme overreaction to an infection. This overreaction can escalate, causing the body to harm itself, which may eventually lead to organ failure. Individuals who reach this advanced stage often pass away, even with treatment.
Because of its severity, early detection is critical when dealing with sepsis. Survival is possible, but prompt and extensive treatment during the early stages significantly improves outcomes. The longer sepsis goes undetected or untreated, the more severe it becomes. For example, if someone isn’t admitted to the hospital until their organs begin to shut down, it may already be too late.
What symptoms should doctors look for?
Sepsis can be challenging to diagnose because its symptoms often overlap with those of other conditions. However, some of the most common symptoms of sepsis include:
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- An abnormally high heart rate
- A fever with a temperature
- Uncontrollable shivering, or feeling notably too cold
- Significant pain and/or discomfort
- Sweaty or clammy skin
When doctors observe this combination of symptoms, they should consider the possibility of sepsis and investigate further. Acting quickly can save a patient’s life.
Medical mistakes and malpractice
Conversely, a doctor who ignores these symptoms or fails to make an accurate diagnosis can put the patient in serious danger. A misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis could prevent the patient from receiving the care they urgently need, allowing the condition to progress to a critical stage.
If you have lost a loved one and believe that medical malpractice contributed to their death, it’s important to understand the legal options available to you.
