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Sepsis Awareness Month: Watch out for these signs and symptoms

Posted at 11:00 AM, Sep 11, 2020
and last updated 2020-09-11 11:00:03-04

More than 1.7 million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with sepsis every year. The Sepsis Alliance from Spectrum Health is raising awareness of the dangers of sepsis and how quick action can be a lifesaver.

Stephen Fitch, pulmonologist and critical care intensivist at Spectrum Health, explains the dangers of sepsis and the symptoms to look out for.

Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming response to infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, amputations, and death.

Mortality from sepsis increases by as much as 8 percent for every hour that treatment is delayed. As many as 80 percent of sepsis deaths could be prevented with rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Sepsis Alliance created the TIME acronym, which also serves as a reminder to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms are present.

· Temperature - Higher or lower than normal

· Infection – May have signs and symptoms of an infection

· Mental decline – Confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse

· Extremely ill – "I feel like I might die," severe pain or discomfort

If you suspect sepsis, see your medical professional immediately, call 911, or go to a hospital with an advocate and say, “I am concerned about sepsis.”

Learn more at spectrumhealth.org.