SEPSIS claims the lives of more than 50,000 Brits each year.
The deadly condition is the body’s overreaction to an infection.
GettySepsis can trigger moderate-to-severe diarrhoea[/caption]
When sepsis takes hold the body begins to damage your body’s own tissues and organs, which can lead to death.
It’s usually triggered by illnesses we all recognise – flu, urinary tract and and skin infections – but any bug can cause the condition.
At first, sufferers might experience weakness, chills and a rapid heart rate and breathing, according to the NHS.
If the infection has made it way into the body through a minor cut, the area surrounding the wound will become red, swollen and warm to touch.
Sweating for no clear reason, shivering and a change in mental status are also common indicators of sepsis.
In some cases, when the condition is triggered by an infection in the cut or colon, in can also lead to moderate-to-severe diarrhoea.
In some people, it can be very obvious this is happening and they will be visibly unwell.
But for others, signs of septic shock can be difficult to spot.
There are, however, some behaviours which could indicate you’re at risk.
Generally, the most common symptoms of septic shock are:
Not being able to stand upDizziness or feeling lightheadedStrong sleepiness or finding it hard time to stay awakeA major change in mental status, such as extreme confusion or disorientationDiarrhoeaNausea and vomitingCold, clammy and pale skin
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, you should call 999.
A person’s chances of surviving sepsis are highly dependent on their getting medical intensive care as soon as possible.
The longer it takes to receive medical care the more likely it is a patient will die.
This is especially important for newborns, the elderly and those who are pregnant, people with long-term health conditions (such as diabetes or kidney failure).
Anyone with a lowered immune system (like those with HIV or AIDS or receiving chemotherapy), are also at risk.
Thankfully, once you receive medical help, there are treatments available.
These include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, medication, antibiotics and surgery.