How can you identify the signs of a blood infection. What are the common symptoms of sepsis. When should you seek immediate medical attention for a potential blood infection. What treatments are available for sepsis. Who is at higher risk of developing blood infections. How do doctors diagnose sepsis. What preventive measures can reduce your risk of blood infections.

Understanding Blood Infections and Sepsis

Blood infections, medically known as sepsis, pose a severe threat to human health and can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed. Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to an infection spirals out of control, potentially leading to organ failure and death. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of sepsis is crucial for early intervention and improved chances of survival.

What exactly is sepsis?

Sepsis is a complex condition where the body’s immune response to an infection becomes dysregulated, causing widespread inflammation and potential organ damage. It can develop from various types of infections, including bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic origins. As the condition progresses, it may lead to septic shock, characterized by a dramatic drop in blood pressure and severe organ dysfunction.

Identifying the Warning Signs of Blood Infections

Recognizing the symptoms of sepsis early can be life-saving. While the signs may vary from person to person, there are several common indicators to watch for:

• Severe body pain
• Skin rashes or discoloration
• Excessive sweating or clamminess
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Unusually low body temperature
• Rapid breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Extreme fatigue or confusion

Are these symptoms always indicative of sepsis? While these signs can be associated with various conditions, their presence, especially in combination, should prompt immediate medical attention. It’s important to note that sepsis symptoms may manifest differently in children compared to adults.

High-Risk Groups for Blood Infections

Certain individuals are more susceptible to developing sepsis than others. Understanding these risk factors can help in early detection and prevention:

• Individuals aged 65 and older
• Infants under 1 year of age
• People with compromised immune systems
• Those with chronic conditions like diabetes
• Recently hospitalized patients
• Individuals with preexisting medical conditions

Why are these groups at higher risk? Factors such as weakened immune responses, ongoing health issues, and increased exposure to potential pathogens contribute to their vulnerability. Healthcare providers often monitor these high-risk patients more closely for signs of sepsis.

Diagnosing Blood Infections: Medical Procedures and Tests

Accurate diagnosis of sepsis requires a combination of physical examinations and laboratory tests. Healthcare professionals employ various diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of a blood infection:

1. Blood cultures to detect bacteria or other pathogens
2. Complete blood count (CBC) to assess white blood cell levels
3. Platelet count evaluation
4. Blood pressure monitoring
5. Kidney and liver function tests
6. Blood oxygen level measurement
7. Acid-base balance assessment

In addition to these tests, imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans may be performed to identify the source of infection or assess organ damage.

How do doctors differentiate sepsis from other conditions?

Physicians look for specific indicators that point towards sepsis. These may include the presence of bacteria in the blood or other bodily fluids, abnormal white blood cell counts, low platelet numbers, and signs of organ dysfunction. The combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory findings helps in making an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Approaches for Blood Infections

Once diagnosed, sepsis requires immediate and aggressive treatment. The primary goals of sepsis management include:

• Controlling the underlying infection
• Supporting organ function
• Maintaining blood pressure
• Preventing further complications

Treatment typically involves hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU) and may include:

Immediate interventions:

• Intravenous (IV) fluids to combat dehydration and support blood pressure
• Broad-spectrum antibiotics to fight the infection
• Oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation if breathing is compromised
• Medications to support blood pressure and heart function

Advanced treatments:

• Targeted antibiotics once the specific pathogen is identified
• Kidney dialysis in cases of severe kidney dysfunction
• Surgical intervention to remove infected tissues or drain abscesses

Can sepsis be treated effectively if caught early? Early recognition and prompt treatment significantly improve the chances of survival and reduce the risk of long-term complications. This underscores the importance of seeking immediate medical attention when sepsis is suspected.

Preventing Blood Infections: Practical Measures

While not all cases of sepsis are preventable, several measures can reduce the risk of developing blood infections:

• Practice good hand hygiene
• Stay up-to-date with vaccinations
• Properly clean and care for wounds
• Manage chronic health conditions effectively
• Seek prompt medical attention for infections
• Follow prescribed antibiotic regimens completely

For individuals at higher risk, additional precautions may be necessary. These may include regular health check-ups, careful monitoring of any signs of infection, and prompt communication with healthcare providers about concerning symptoms.

How effective are these preventive measures?

While these strategies can significantly reduce the risk of sepsis, they cannot eliminate it entirely. However, consistent application of these preventive measures, combined with awareness of sepsis symptoms, can contribute to early detection and improved outcomes.

Long-Term Implications of Sepsis: Recovery and Rehabilitation

Surviving sepsis is a significant achievement, but the journey doesn’t end with hospital discharge. Many sepsis survivors face long-term health challenges and require ongoing support and rehabilitation.

Common post-sepsis complications:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Cognitive impairments, often referred to as “post-sepsis syndrome”
• Increased risk of recurrent infections
• Psychological effects, including anxiety and depression
• Organ dysfunction or damage

Recovery from sepsis can be a lengthy process, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare specialists. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support may all play crucial roles in the rehabilitation process.

What factors influence sepsis recovery?

The severity of the initial sepsis episode, the patient’s overall health status, and the timeliness of treatment all contribute to the recovery trajectory. Age, preexisting health conditions, and the extent of organ damage during sepsis also play significant roles in determining long-term outcomes.

Advancing Sepsis Research: Current Trends and Future Directions

The medical community continues to invest in research to improve sepsis diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Several areas of focus include:

• Development of rapid diagnostic tests for earlier sepsis detection
• Exploration of novel treatment approaches, including immunomodulatory therapies
• Investigation of genetic factors that may influence sepsis susceptibility and outcomes
• Implementation of advanced monitoring technologies in critical care settings
• Refinement of sepsis treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes

These research efforts aim to enhance our understanding of sepsis pathophysiology, identify new therapeutic targets, and develop more effective prevention and treatment strategies.

How might future advancements impact sepsis management?

Emerging technologies and research findings have the potential to revolutionize sepsis care. Improved diagnostic tools could lead to faster identification of sepsis, allowing for earlier intervention. Novel therapies may offer more targeted approaches to managing the immune response in sepsis, potentially reducing organ damage and improving survival rates. Additionally, advancements in personalized medicine may enable tailored treatment strategies based on individual patient characteristics and genetic profiles.

As research progresses, healthcare providers and patients alike can look forward to more effective, precise, and personalized approaches to sepsis prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. This ongoing scientific endeavor offers hope for improved outcomes and reduced mortality rates associated with blood infections in the future.

How to Tell if You Have a Blood Infection

Blood infections, also known as sepsis, can be fatal if not treated immediately. This is why it’s crucial to know the warning signs of sepsis and how to stop it in its tracks. Blood infections occur when your body is experiencing a severe reaction to an illness. People 65 or younger than 1 are more at risk for sepsis than others. If you can spot the warning signs of a blood infection quickly, it can potentially save your life.  

Blood Infection Symptoms

Blood infections are typically the last thing we think about when we’re sick. However, certain groups are more at risk for sepsis than others. Those immunocompromised, have diabetes, were recently hospitalized, or have preexisting conditions are susceptible to blood infections. Doctors will typically monitor patients who present a higher risk for sepsis. But knowing the symptoms of a blood infection could save a life.

Some symptoms associated with blood infections or sepsis are:

• Severe pain in the body
• Rash or blotchy skin
• Sweaty or clammy skin
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Chills
• Low body temperature
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heart-rate
• Fatigue or confusion

Sepsis can be extremely dangerous if not treated immediately, and blood infections require hospitalization to ensure a full recovery. If you or a loved one is displaying these symptoms, please go to the hospital directly.

Treatment for Poisoning or Infection in the Blood

If a patient does have a blood infection, they’ll be taken to the hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU). A medical team will work to prevent the disease from spreading further, manage blood pressure, and maintain organ function. Patients with sepsis will likely be put on intravenous fluids (IV) and may even need a machine to help with breathing.

If a blood infection is caught on time in its early stages, patients will be put on broad-spectrum antibiotics. Once the cause of sepsis is identified, medication will be used to target the specific bacteria or virus.

In more severe cases of sepsis, kidney dialysis or surgery may be required to clear out the remaining infection.

What Causes for Blood Infections?

Bacterial infections are usually to blame as the cause of blood infections. If bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi enter the body and spread into the bloodstream, sepsis may occur. In this case, it’s more likely that immunocompromised patients are more at risk for sepsis.

Sepsis may also occur as a result of rare bone infections. This is known as osteomyelitis, which is more likely for people already hospitalized. It’s possible for bacteria to enter through surgical wounds, IV lines, catheters, or bed sores.

In most cases, blood infections are preventable. You can take proper precautions against sepsis by frequently washing your hands, vaccinating, thoroughly cleaning injuries, and keeping up with doctor visits.

Diagnosis for a Blood Infection

To accurately diagnose a blood infection, a doctor will run some tests and physical examinations to accurately diagnose a blood infection. They’ll look for surefire signs such as:

• Bacteria in the blood or other bodily fluids
• High or low white blood cell count
• A low number of blood platelets
• Low blood pressure
• Kidney or liver issues
• Lack of oxygen reaching your blood
• Acidosis, too much acid in your blood

X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT Scans may be performed to diagnose a blood infection.

BASS Medical is Here to Help

BASS Medical is proud to provide high-quality care to the community. If you want to take preventive measures against sepsis, we’re here to help. We offer a range of services and specialized care. Call (925) 350-4044 to schedule your appointment today.

Sepsis – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Sepsis is a serious condition in which the body responds improperly to an infection. The infection-fighting processes turn on the body, causing the organs to work poorly.

Sepsis may progress to septic shock. This is a dramatic drop in blood pressure that can damage the lungs, kidneys, liver and other organs. When the damage is severe, it can lead to death.

Early treatment of sepsis improves chances for survival.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of sepsis

Symptoms of sepsis may include:

• Change in mental status.
• Fast, shallow breathing.
• Sweating for no clear reason.
• Feeling lightheaded.
• Shivering.
• Symptoms specific to the type of infection, such as painful urination from a urinary tract infection or worsening cough from pneumonia.

Symptoms of sepsis are not specific. They can vary from person to person, and sepsis may appear differently in children than in adults.

Symptoms of septic shock

Sepsis may progress to septic shock. Septic shock is a severe drop in blood pressure. Progression to septic shock raises the risk of death. Symptoms of septic shock include:

• Not being able to stand up.
• Strong sleepiness or hard time staying awake.
• Major change in mental status, such as extreme confusion.

When to see a doctor

Any infection could lead to sepsis. Go to a health care provider if you have symptoms of sepsis or an infection or wound that isn’t getting better.

Symptoms such as confusion or fast breathing need emergency care.

Causes

Any type of infection can lead to sepsis. This includes bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Those that more commonly cause sepsis include infections of:

• Lungs, such as pneumonia.
• Kidney, bladder and other parts of the urinary system.
• Digestive system.
• Bloodstream.
• Catheter sites.
• Wounds or burns.

Risk factors

Some factors that increase the risk infection will lead to sepsis include:

• People over age 65.
• Infancy.
• People with lower immune response, such as those being treated for cancer or people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• People with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, kidney disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Admission to intensive care unit or longer hospital stays.
• Devices that go in the body, such as catheters in the vein, called intravenous, or breathing tubes.
• Treatment with antibiotics in the last 90 days.
• A condition that requires treatment with corticosteroids, which can lower immune response.

Complications

As sepsis worsens, vital organs, such as the brain, heart and kidneys, don’t get as much blood as they should. Sepsis may cause atypical blood clotting. The resulting small clots or burst blood vessels may damage or destroy tissues.

Most people recover from mild sepsis, but the mortality rate for septic shock is about 30% to 40%. Also, an episode of severe sepsis raises the risk for future infections.

Bacterial infection by blood test

11/27/2019

A complete blood count (CBC) is a laboratory method that allows you to objectively assess the qualitative and quantitative composition of blood cells for the diagnosis of various diseases. Counting the number of leukocytes (WBC), the percentage of leukocytes (leukocyte formula) and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) are the main parameters that reflect the activity of viral and bacterial infections.

WBCs are the “white knights” of the immune system. Leukopoiesis (formation of white blood cells) occurs in the red bone marrow. Depending on the morphological features (cell size, nucleus shape, presence of specific granules) and the function they perform, leukocytes are divided into two groups: granulocytes (neutrophilic, basophilic and eosinophilic leukocytes), agranulocytes (monocytes, lymphocytes).

Neutrophils (NE) Two types of NE normally circulate in the bloodstream: stab (young) and segmented (mature). The younger elements of the granulocytic series enter the blood from the red bone marrow only in case of pathology. The main function of NE is the destruction of microorganisms, by recognition, active capture, and digestion of the microbial agent (phagocytosis). Neutrophils are involved in all stages of the inflammatory process.

Eosinophils (EO) are the leading formed elements in the fight against parasites (protozoa, helminths), take part in allergic reactions.

Basophils (BA) – take part in allergic reactions, as well as in the regulation of blood circulation through the secretion of hormone-like substances: histamine, serotonin and heparin.

· Lymphocytes (LYM) – play a central role in all immunological reactions of the body. Thanks to receptors on the surface of cells, they are able to distinguish between “own” and “foreign”. The main function of LYM is the synthesis of protective antibodies and the provision of immune memory.

Monocytes (MON) are agranulocytic cells that stay in the blood for several days, then leave the bloodstream moving to the tissues, where they perform their function as macrophages, phagocytizing particles larger than neutrophils, and sometimes whole microbial agents.

Plasma cells (Plasmocytes) are lymphoid tissue cells that develop from cells that are precursors of B-lymphocytes and are responsible for the production of antibodies in response to stimulation with foreign antigens. Normally, plasma cells do not circulate in the blood.

ESR – is determined by the intensity and speed of erythrocyte agglutination in the bloodstream. This parameter indirectly indicates the presence of a pathological process, such as inflammation, in the body.

To decipher the analysis, it is important to evaluate all of the listed indicators in a complex, and not one by one. In addition, for the correct interpretation of changes in the CBC, it is necessary to take into account the age-related features of the leukocyte formula.

Fig.1

At the birth of a child, the number of neutrophils (NE) prevails over the content of lymphocytes (LYM). On days 4-5, the NE and LYM values ​​are approximately at the same level (First crossover). Further, starting from the 2nd month of a child’s life, the number of NE decreases again, and LYM increases, then the NE index increases, and LYM decreases. Then, at 4 years, the number of cells is approximately the same (Second decussation). Finally, by the age of fourteen, the percentage of leukocytes (WBC) corresponds to those of an adult.

The table shows the percentage of WBC.

Signs of a bacterial infection on a blood test.

The human body is constantly faced with external threats in the form of pathogenic microorganisms. In preparation for possible damage in the blood, a mobile pool of circulating neutrophils is quickly formed, as a result of an accelerated release of granulocytes from the red bone marrow, cessation of the release of neutrophils into tissues, and mobilization of the parietal pool of elements.

In acute bacterial infections, the amount of these elements in the blood increases dramatically, and less mature cells may appear. (Shift to the left). Intensive destruction of mature neutrophils in tissues leads to active production of younger cells by the bone marrow. In the blood, the number of both the leukocytes themselves and a separate fraction – neutrophils – increases.

The higher the number of these cells, the more active the inflammatory process in the body. Often, these changes help identify signs of a bacterial infection in a blood test in adults. In the inflammatory process of bacterial etiology, an increase in the blood plasma of some inflammatory proteins (fibrinogen, ceruloplasmin, immunoglobulins) is characteristic. Some of these proteins attach to erythrocytes, therefore, ESR increases significantly.

Blood test for viral infection.

For replication, a virus needs a full-fledged cell of the body, which it uses as a testing ground for the production of its own genome, so the virus finds and infects certain cells that contain specific receptors on their surface. In order for the cells of the immune system to distinguish an infected cell from a healthy one and destroy it, proteins of the major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) act as a “mark of infection”. This is how T-lymphocytes are activated, which have certain receptors on their surface, with the help of which they recognize labeled, and therefore infected cells.

In this regard, in acute viral diseases in the KLA, the number of lymphocytes and / or monocytes increases. The total number of leukocytes is usually reduced or within the age norm.

However, in a pathological process of viral etiology, a blood test can also correspond to normal indicators of a healthy person, and during a bacterial process, the number of leukocytes and the absolute number of neutrophils are not always a reliable marker. That is why, in order to prescribe an effective and adequate treatment, each case must be evaluated by a doctor individually.

In addition, it is now possible to protect yourself and your loved ones from many viral and bacterial infections through effective and safe vaccination.

Author: resident doctor of the University Clinic H-Clinic Pushik Elena Pavlovna

Medical editor: Head of the University Clinic, PhD, infectious disease doctor Danila Sergeevich Konnov

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Urinary tract infections: symptoms and treatment

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) cause more than 8 million doctor visits each year and about five percent of all doctor visits. 40 percent of women and 12 percent of men will have at least one episode of a symptomatic urinary tract infection during their lifetime. A bladder infection is called cystitis, and a kidney infection is called pyelonephritis. Kidney infections are much less common but more dangerous.

A few words about the urinary system of a healthy person

The organs of the urinary system form and accumulate urine, which is one of the waste products of our body. Urine is formed in the kidneys and travels down the ureters to the bladder. The bladder serves as a reservoir for storing urine, which is then emptied through the urethra. The urethra ends at the penis in men and the area above the vagina in women.

The kidneys are a pair of fist-sized organs located in the lumbar region that serve as a filter for the body, removing waste products from the body in the form of urine. The kidneys also regulate the balance in the body of various chemicals (sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, etc. ) and control the acidity of the blood. The kidneys produce certain hormones that are involved in regulating blood pressure, stimulating the production of red blood cells, and promoting the development of strong bones.

The ureters are two muscular tubes that transport urine to the bladder.

Normal urine is sterile and free from bacteria. However, bacteria can enter urine from the urethra and travel to the bladder.

Urinary tract infection symptoms

If you have a urinary tract infection (UTI), the lining of your bladder and urethra becomes inflamed and irritated, just like your throat during a cold. Possible pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic region, frequent urination with burning in the urethra. During urination, only a few drops of urine may be excreted, despite a distinct urge. You may also find that your urine has become foul-smelling and cloudy.

Kidney infections are often accompanied by fever and back pain. These infections must be treated promptly because a kidney infection can quickly spread through the bloodstream and lead to life-threatening conditions.

UTIs are often classified as simple (uncomplicated) or complicated. Complicated UTIs can be defined as urinary tract abnormalities or when the bacteria causing the infection are resistant to most antibiotics.

What are the causes of urinary tract infections?

A large number of bacteria live in the rectal area and also on our skin. Bacteria can enter the urine from the urethra, from there into the bladder, and even end up in the kidneys.

Just as some people are more prone to colds, many of us are prone to UTIs. In women who have gone through menopause, there are changes in the lining of the vagina and a decrease in estrogen, which increases the likelihood of UTIs. Postmenopausal women with UTIs may benefit from hormone therapy. Some women are genetically predisposed to urinary tract infections.

Sexual intercourse increases the incidence of urinary tract infections.

Women who use spirals have an increased risk compared to those who use other forms of contraception. The use of condoms with spermicidal gel also leads to an increase in urinary tract infections in women. In general, women are more prone to urinary tract infections because they have a shorter urethra than men, so the bacteria travel only a short distance to the bladder.

It is most likely to get a urinary tract infection in case of urinary tract anomalies or in case of instrumental manipulations (for example, a urethral catheter).

Endocrine diseases such as diabetes increase the risk of UTIs by weakening the immune system and therefore reducing the body’s resistance to infection.

Anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract can also lead to UTIs. These disorders often occur in young children, but can also occur in adults.

So how do you spot a urinary tract infection?

If you are concerned about this issue, you should contact your doctor.

The main types of UTI diagnostics are laboratory tests of blood and urine. A urine sample is examined under a microscope, looking for signs of infection such as bacteria or white blood cells in the urine. It is recommended to take a urine culture to determine the microflora and sensitivity to antibiotics.

If you find blood in your urine, you should contact your doctor immediately. Blood in the urine can be associated with an infection, but it can also be a manifestation of other formidable diseases, such as urolithiasis or tumors of the bladder, kidneys.

How to treat urinary tract infections?

Simple UTIs are usually treated with a short course of oral antibiotics. A three-day course of antibiotics is sufficient. However, some infections require longer therapy, up to several weeks. Depending on the type of antibiotics used, take one dose per day or up to four daily doses. A few doses of the medication may relieve your pain or urge to urinate frequently, but you must still complete the full course of treatment prescribed by your doctor, even if all symptoms have gone. If a UTI is not fully treated, they may return more than once. You must also remember to drink plenty of fluids.

If you have a complicated UTI, longer antibiotics and medicines to improve your condition are needed. Kidney infections are generally considered to be complicated by UTIs.

What can I expect after treatment for urinary tract infections?

An uncomplicated UTI usually resolves after a few days of antibiotics and you don’t need a urinalysis for culture to prove it’s gone. If you have a complicated UTI, a urine culture is required both before and after treatment.

FAQ:

What happens to my kidneys if I have a UTI?
If UTIs are treated in the early stages, then there will be no problems. Recurring or undertreated UTIs can lead to kidney damage if not treated promptly.

Why do I have a UTI?
Most UTIs are one-time and never recur. Some patients have anatomical and genetic predispositions that tend to make one person more susceptible than another.

How to avoid urinary tract infections?
There are a few simple steps women can take to avoid urinary tract infections:

• Some forms of birth control, such as spermicidal gels and coils, are known to increase the risk of UTIs in women who use them as contraception.
• Drink plenty of fluids – at least 2 liters per day.
• Urging should not be long tolerated and urination should not be interrupted.
• Women are advised to wipe from front to back after going to the toilet to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anus to the vagina or urethra.
• Urinating after intercourse may reduce the risk of developing a UTI. Sometimes taking a single dose of an antibiotic after unprotected intercourse can help prevent recurrent UTIs.

When to worry?
If you continue to have symptoms of a UTI after treatment, or if you have symptoms of a UTI accompanied by nausea and vomiting, you should contact your doctor immediately. If you ever see blood in your urine, you should also see your doctor.

What if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant and have symptoms of a UTI, you should contact your doctor immediately. A UTI during pregnancy can put the health of the mother and baby at risk if not dealt with quickly and correctly.