Blood poisoning: early identification and treatment are crucial
If bacteria or viruses enter the body – for example through an open wound – the immune system begins to fight the intruders. This results in inflammation, the body’s own immune response. In rare cases, this defence mechanism gets out of control and antibodies spread through the blood to all parts of the body, meaning that the inflammation also spreads throughout the entire body. This is known as blood poisoning or sepsis. In the worst case, the antibodies may start to attack the body’s own organs, which can be fatal. A race against time then begins with antibiotics or antiviral medication.
Symptoms of blood poisoning
Blood poisoning can be caused by infections in various parts of the body, such as the lungs, throat, urinary tract or abdomen, or by an injury that initially appears to be harmless. Of course, an infection does not automatically indicate blood poisoning. Anyone who has an infection, however, should be especially on the lookout for possible symptoms. Signs of blood poisoning may include:
- High temperature (particularly if it cannot be lowered, or only with difficulty, despite the correct dose of medication being taken)
- Shivering
- Very strong feeling of malaise that gets worse despite medication
- Tiny, pinprick-like spots on the skin (petechiae)
- Accelerated breathing and heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion and drowsiness
