What is sepsis and how does it affect the body. Who is at risk for developing sepsis. What are the signs and symptoms to watch out for. How is sepsis diagnosed and treated. Why is early recognition crucial for sepsis survival.

What is Sepsis? Unraveling the Complex Medical Emergency

Sepsis is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to infection spirals out of control. Rather than fighting off the invading pathogens, the immune system goes into overdrive, triggering a cascade of events that can lead to widespread inflammation, organ failure, and even death if left untreated.

To understand sepsis better, let’s break down its key components:

• Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection
• It is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention
• Sepsis can result from various types of infections
• Without timely treatment, it can rapidly progress to tissue damage, organ failure, and death

Is sepsis contagious?

Many people wonder if sepsis itself is contagious. The short answer is no, you cannot directly spread sepsis to another person. However, it’s crucial to understand that the underlying infections that lead to sepsis can often be transmitted from person to person. This is why proper hygiene and infection control measures are essential in preventing the spread of potentially sepsis-causing pathogens.

The Alarming Statistics: Sepsis in Numbers

The prevalence and impact of sepsis are staggering. Consider these statistics from a typical year in the United States:

• At least 1.7 million adults develop sepsis annually
• Approximately 350,000 adults who develop sepsis either die during hospitalization or are discharged to hospice care
• 1 in 3 people who die in a hospital had sepsis during that hospitalization
• In nearly 87% of cases, sepsis or the infection causing it starts before the patient is admitted to the hospital

These numbers highlight the critical importance of early recognition and prompt treatment of sepsis. They also underscore the need for increased awareness among both healthcare professionals and the general public.

Causes of Sepsis: Understanding the Triggers

Sepsis occurs when an existing infection triggers an overwhelming response from the body’s immune system. But what types of infections are most likely to lead to sepsis?

Common infection sites leading to sepsis

• Lungs (pneumonia)
• Urinary tract
• Skin
• Gastrointestinal tract

While bacterial infections are the most common cause of sepsis, it’s important to note that viral infections, including COVID-19 and influenza, as well as fungal infections, can also lead to this condition.

How does sepsis develop?

Sepsis develops when the body’s response to an infection becomes dysregulated. Instead of localizing and controlling the infection, the immune system releases a flood of inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream. This overwhelming response can lead to widespread inflammation, blood clotting issues, and impaired blood flow to vital organs.

Who is at Risk? Identifying Vulnerable Populations

While sepsis can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk of developing this life-threatening condition. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals and healthcare providers remain vigilant and take appropriate preventive measures.

High-risk groups for sepsis

• Adults 65 years or older
• People with weakened immune systems
• Individuals with chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, lung disease, cancer, kidney disease)
• Those who have recently experienced severe illness or hospitalization
• Survivors of previous sepsis episodes
• Children younger than one year old

If you or a loved one falls into one of these high-risk categories, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of sepsis and seek medical attention promptly if an infection is suspected or worsening.

Recognizing Sepsis: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Early recognition of sepsis is critical for improving outcomes. However, the signs and symptoms can be subtle and may vary from person to person. It’s essential to be aware of the potential indicators and seek medical assessment if sepsis is suspected.

Common signs and symptoms of sepsis

• High heart rate or weak pulse
• Confusion or disorientation
• Extreme pain or discomfort
• Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold
• Shortness of breath
• Clammy or sweaty skin

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions. A medical assessment by a healthcare professional is necessary to confirm a sepsis diagnosis.

How do symptoms differ in children?

Sepsis may present differently in children compared to adults. In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, children with sepsis might exhibit:

• Irritability or excessive sleepiness
• Poor feeding or reduced appetite
• Changes in skin color (pale, mottled, or bluish)
• Decreased urine output

Parents and caregivers should be particularly vigilant if a child has recently had an infection or injury, as sepsis can develop rapidly in young children.

The Progression of Sepsis: Understanding Septic Shock

Sepsis can quickly escalate to a more severe condition known as septic shock if left untreated. Septic shock is characterized by a dramatic drop in blood pressure that can lead to organ failure and significantly increase the risk of death.

Symptoms of septic shock

• Inability to stand up
• Extreme drowsiness or difficulty staying awake
• Significant changes in mental status, such as severe confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Weak or rapid pulse
• Cool, pale, or mottled skin

Septic shock is a medical emergency that requires immediate intensive care. The progression from sepsis to septic shock can happen rapidly, which is why early recognition and treatment of sepsis are crucial.

Diagnosis and Treatment: The Race Against Time

When it comes to sepsis, time is of the essence. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical for improving outcomes and reducing the risk of complications.

How is sepsis diagnosed?

Diagnosing sepsis typically involves a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Healthcare providers may:

• Evaluate vital signs and symptoms
• Perform blood tests to check for signs of infection, organ dysfunction, and abnormal blood clotting
• Order imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans) to identify the source of infection
• Take cultures from blood, urine, or other bodily fluids to identify the specific pathogen causing the infection

Treatment approaches for sepsis

The treatment of sepsis focuses on addressing the underlying infection, supporting organ function, and managing complications. Key components of sepsis treatment include:

• Prompt administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics
• Intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure and organ perfusion
• Oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation if needed
• Medications to support blood pressure (vasopressors)
• Careful monitoring of vital signs and organ function
• Treatment of specific complications as they arise

In severe cases, patients may require admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring and advanced supportive care.

Prevention and Awareness: Key Strategies in the Fight Against Sepsis

While not all cases of sepsis can be prevented, there are several steps individuals and healthcare providers can take to reduce the risk of developing this life-threatening condition.

Preventive measures for sepsis

• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Keep cuts and wounds clean and covered until healed
• Stay up to date on vaccinations, including those for flu and pneumonia
• Manage chronic conditions effectively
• Seek prompt medical attention for infections that are not improving or are worsening

Raising awareness: The importance of education

Increasing public awareness about sepsis is crucial for improving outcomes. Healthcare organizations and advocacy groups are working to educate both medical professionals and the general public about:

• The signs and symptoms of sepsis
• The importance of early recognition and treatment
• Risk factors and preventive measures
• The long-term effects of sepsis on survivors

By promoting awareness and understanding of sepsis, we can empower individuals to seek timely medical care and potentially save lives.

Living with Sepsis: Long-Term Effects and Recovery

Surviving sepsis is a significant achievement, but the journey doesn’t end there. Many sepsis survivors face long-term physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges in the aftermath of their illness.

Common post-sepsis symptoms

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Muscle and joint pain
• Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety and depression
• Increased susceptibility to infections

These lingering effects, sometimes referred to as “post-sepsis syndrome,” can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to return to their pre-sepsis level of functioning.

Support and rehabilitation for sepsis survivors

Recovery from sepsis often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including:

• Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
• Occupational therapy to assist with daily living activities
• Cognitive rehabilitation to address memory and concentration issues
• Psychological support to manage emotional challenges
• Regular follow-up with healthcare providers to monitor for potential complications

Support groups and patient advocacy organizations can also play a crucial role in helping sepsis survivors and their families navigate the recovery process and access necessary resources.

The Future of Sepsis Care: Advancements in Research and Treatment

As our understanding of sepsis continues to evolve, researchers and healthcare professionals are working tirelessly to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for patients affected by this life-threatening condition.

Emerging areas of sepsis research

• Biomarker discovery for earlier and more accurate diagnosis
• Personalized treatment approaches based on individual patient characteristics
• Novel therapies targeting the dysregulated immune response in sepsis
• Improved strategies for preventing hospital-acquired infections
• Development of predictive models to identify patients at high risk for sepsis

Technological advancements in sepsis care

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in sepsis management, with innovations such as:

• Artificial intelligence algorithms for early sepsis detection
• Continuous monitoring systems to track vital signs and alert healthcare providers to potential sepsis cases
• Electronic health record integration to improve communication and coordination of care
• Telemedicine platforms to provide expert consultation in remote or underserved areas

These advancements hold promise for improving sepsis outcomes and reducing the global burden of this devastating condition.

In conclusion, sepsis remains a significant healthcare challenge, but increased awareness, early recognition, and prompt treatment can save lives. By understanding the risks, recognizing the signs and symptoms, and seeking timely medical care, we can work together to combat this life-threatening condition and improve outcomes for those affected by sepsis.

What is Sepsis? | Sepsis

• What is sepsis?
• Is sepsis contagious?
• What causes sepsis?
• Who is at risk?
• What are the signs & symptoms?
• What should I do if I think I might have sepsis?
• Fact Sheet, Brochure, and Conversation Starter

Anyone can get an infection, and almost any infection, including COVID-19, can lead to sepsis. In a typical year:

• At least 1.7 million adults in America develop sepsis.
• At least 350,000 adults who develop sepsis die during their hospitalization or are discharged to hospice.
• 1 in 3 people who dies in a hospital had sepsis during that hospitalization
• Sepsis, or the infection causing sepsis, starts before a patient goes to the hospital in nearly 87% of cases.

Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. It is a life-threatening medical emergency.   Sepsis happens when an infection you already have triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.  Infections that lead to sepsis most often start in the lung, urinary tract, skin, or gastrointestinal tract. Without timely treatment, sepsis can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.

Is sepsis contagious?

You can’t spread sepsis to other people. However, an infection can lead to sepsis, and you can spread some infections to other people.

Sepsis happens when…

Transcript: Sepsis happens when [TXT 1 1 KB]

What causes sepsis?

Infections can put you or your loved one at risk for sepsis. When germs get into a person’s body, they can cause an infection. If you don’t stop that infection, it can cause sepsis. Bacterial infections cause most cases of sepsis. Sepsis can also be a result of other infections, including viral infections, such as COVID-19 or influenza, or fungal infections.

Top of Page

Who is at risk?

Anyone can develop sepsis, but some people are at higher risk for sepsis:

Adults 65 or older

People with weakened immune systems

People with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and kidney disease

People with recent severe illness or hospitalization

People who survived sepsis

Children younger than one

Top of Page

What are the signs & symptoms?

A person with sepsis might have one or more of the following signs or symptoms:

High heart rate or weak pulse

Confusion or disorientation

Extreme pain or discomfort

Fever, shivering, or feeling very cold

Shortness of breath

Clammy or sweaty skin

A medical assessment by a healthcare professional is needed to confirm sepsis.

Top of Page

What should I do if I think I might have sepsis?

Sepsis is a medical emergency. If you or your loved one has an infection that’s not getting better or is getting worse, ACT FAST.

Get medical care IMMEDIATELY. Ask your healthcare professional, “Could this infection be leading to sepsis?” and if you should go to the emergency room.

If you have a medical emergency, call 911. If you have or think you have sepsis, tell the operator. If you have or think you have COVID-19, tell the operator this as well. If possible, put on a mask before medical help arrives.

With fast recognition and treatment, most people survive.  Treatment requires urgent medical care, usually in an intensive care unit in a hospital, and includes careful monitoring of vital signs and often antibiotics.

Top of Page

Fact Sheet, Brochure, and Conversation Starter (Print Only)

Protect Yourself and Your Family from Sepsis [PDF – 2 pages]

It’s Time to Talk about Sepsis [PDF – 2 pages]

Start the Conversation Today [PDF – 2 Pages]

Top of Page

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.

Products & Services

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.

Choosing a septic tank for a family of 4-5 people: a detailed analysis

“How to choose a septic tank for a family of 4-5 people?” – we constantly encounter such a question from our customers, because this is the most likely number of residents of a country house!

We are happy to answer this question in detail, because today there are many criteria for choosing septic tanks. Fortunately for the end consumer, the products presented by the manufacturers on the market will solve any of your problems. When there are many and similar solutions, the time comes for expert advice – and our experience in this area is more than 30 years. So let’s go.

The main criterion for choosing a septic tank is the capacity of the cleaning station

First of all, before choosing a septic tank for five people, we pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Constant number of residents. For example, a husband with his wife and two children live permanently in the house, and sometimes guests come: for example, mother-in-law with father-in-law or friends.
2. Salvo drop for real tasks. For example, if you live together, but you have a jacuzzi, where a huge amount of water will accumulate and then be discharged at the same time. Then you need to calculate the station from the maximum salvo discharge, since it will be much higher than calculated for two. The maximum volume of salvo discharge is calculated as 0.3 of the volume of the station.
3. We advise you to take the unit with a margin of 30% of the capacity you calculated.

Thus, the calculation of a septic tank for 4 people is simple. You need to take the larger of the values: the maximum burst discharge, taking into account all kinds of equipment, baths, saunas, etc., or the average daily productivity, depending on the number of residents. The resulting figure must be multiplied by 1. 3 – and get the performance of the station. In the name of each modification there is a number, which just indicates the working volume of the station.

How to choose a septic tank model from options with the same capacity?

Flagship — for those who won’t stand up for the price

If you live in a house permanently and want to get the most reliable station, time-tested and tens of thousands of users, then your choice is TVER CLASSIC. Do not hesitate, this is a premium segment among septic tanks. Comfort is maximum, service is the rarest on the market. No blockages guaranteed. Wastewater treatment up to 99%. Stable operation during power outages and large volley discharge. Perhaps this is the best best septic tank for a family of up to five people.

Price/quality

Interested in an option with an ideal price-performance ratio? Do you live permanently or come for the season, but your site is not very large, and the compactness of the installation plays an important role? At the same time, maintenance once every 1-2 years will suit you.

Then your choice is TVER AERO. Aeration cleaning up to 98%, compact size and easy maintenance.

Optimal price

If you live in the house temporarily, or with long breaks; if you do not have electricity on the site – or it comes intermittently; if you want an installation even more compact and economical, which will perform the initial treatment of wastewater with further post-treatment in the drainage field – if this is about you, then TVER LITE will solve all the tasks set with distinction.

Optimal in place on the site

Aeration unit for those who have little space – or deep pipes – vertical TVER PRO. All other installations that we named above are horizontal, which means they take up a little more space on the site. All have their pros and cons, but our PRO is essentially a vertical AERO. The quality of cleaning is excellent. The price and size are very attractive.

Ecology

Thank you for choosing among the best – the quality of treatment facilities directly affects the environment. Each of us is responsible for the environment: for our part, we guarantee the highest degree of wastewater treatment, the use of the most modern technologies and participation in the maintenance and installation of only experienced engineers.

Septic tank on the site, sewer placement standards

Consultation with specialists helps to determine which arrangement options will be optimal for a particular area. All the nuances are taken into account, including the technical plan. Let’s talk about the septic tank on the site.

Standards for the placement of septic tanks on the site

For a private house, it is important to make the right choice regarding sewerage and disposal of wastewater. Standards may vary depending on the characteristics of the site and operating conditions. Separate consideration deserves the issue related to obtaining permits.

General concepts and advantages of the installation

A septic tank is a type of tank where sewage is accumulated. It is relevant for installation in suburban areas where there is no access to centralized sources. Often these are just plastic containers located underground. Several chambers for biological and mechanical treatment of varying degrees may be present in the design at once. Discharge is expected towards the terrain or water bodies.

If the site is located far from centralized sources of resources, the septic tank and its operation provide the following advantages:

1. High degree of wastewater treatment.
2. Environmentally friendly if the devices are sealed from the start.
3. No unpleasant odors.
4. Easy to mount, no problem in operation.

About the location

It is worth first studying the rules related to the placement of septic tanks on the plots. Most of the documents regulating this issue refer to a series of SniPs or SanPins. They were released after the 1990s.

Uncontrolled construction of treatment facilities is completely prohibited. In SES, it is required to agree on a project for future construction.

First, they decide in which part of the territory to place the device. The summer-autumn period is ideal for installation.

Groundwater will not interfere with the process as it rises to the minimum level. But in winter, the demand at the station will not be so high. This gives you the opportunity to get a serious discount. But additional costs still appear during the arrangement, because it is impossible to create the most comfortable conditions for the arrangement.

About distances to the well and wells

The distance between septic tanks and water intake points is one of the main requirements, which is regulated more strictly than others. If effluents enter the ground, they will pollute the soil and the environment, and can lead to poisoning.

A distance of 30 meters or more from a well or well is considered optimal for most cases. In the direction of groundwater flow, the water intake point should be located higher. Up to 50 meters increase the indicator if the site is located on loamy, sandy soils.

To the garden

If the structure is not airtight, it is not desirable to have bushes and trees nearby. Plants may die due to excess moisture when the distance is 5 meters or less.

What other requirements and conditions are associated with the installation?

There are other measures aimed primarily at optimizing the use of devices:

• At least 5 meters or more retreat from the gas pipeline.
• Periodically the system must be desilted.
• Any buildings must be at least 1 meter away from the septic tank.

During installation, it is worth paying attention to other factors that are important:

1. The nature of the soil in the area.
2. Ground slope level.
3. Installation form and method.
4. Groundwater depth determination.
5. Variety of selected septic tank.

About the types of septic tanks and their arrangement

The use of modern systems allows you to get a better result at the output. In the case of soil post-treatment in the territories, preference is often given to:

• Drainage fields.

  In small areas they are rarely chosen. Relevant if, under existing conditions, it is impossible to equip a drainage well. For example, when soils do not absorb liquid very well. Or if the waters from the ground are high.

• Drainage wells.

  These are shafts that are supplied with perforated walls. There is no bottom in this design. Depending on the water permeability of the soil, they are determined with the diameter of the rings for the well. The higher the indicator, the smaller the cross section of reinforced concrete products.

Tunnels, blocks and cassettes are used as filter elements.

Vacuum equipment is needed to clean the first tank, which is responsible for cleaning, from time to time. Compared to pit latrines, septic tanks do not require such cleaning at the same frequency.

Existing problems and ways to solve them

It is impossible to unequivocally declare the installation of a septic tank using the same numbers. After all, modern devices of this type are diverse. Many models have an attractive appearance from the very beginning, so they do not require additional decoration. This is confirmed by photographs published by the manufacturers themselves.

But drain pits are not only decorated with lids that can be opened and closed. If possible, moisture-loving plants are planted on the territory. Previously, such structures were popular, now they are no longer so common.

Some savings systems are good only for seasonal living, and are not suitable for permanent residence. It is better to build a high-tech treatment plant if the owner intends to live in this house for many years.

What are the best septic tanks to choose for a summer residence?

When choosing such equipment, several factors are taken into account at once in order to make the right decision:

1. The depth of groundwater. It is better to check at the moments when this level is maximum.
2. Soil type. It depends on it whether an additional layer should be present.
3. Approximate amount of water used per day.
4. Length of stay in the house.
5. Number of people who use the equipment on a regular basis.

Septic tanks that accumulate wastewater are divided into two types:

• Sealed.

  In fact, they are tanks, consisting of several parts and types of equipment. It is only capable of accumulating effluents without cleaning them.

• Leaky.

  Relate to varieties of cesspools. Cleaning is carried out at the expense of the soil, which does not comply with current standards.

Another thing is septic tanks, inside of which deep cleaning is supported.

1. Tanks.

   Three-compartment structures that are combined into one tank. Cleaning is organized sequentially, inside each of the elements. The first stage of the whole process is mechanical cleaning. The second involves the use of chemicals. Biologically active bacteria or ultraviolet light is used in one of the last stages.

2. Topas.

   Purifies the internal contents with the help of anaerobic bacteria.

What else is better to consider during operation and installation?

Compliance with the following simple rules helps to avoid unpleasant consequences.

• It is desirable that the pipes run only in a straight line, where there are no additional bends.
• Installation is best done in a place with as soft ground as possible.
• Wells and wells are located above the sump.
• Deep depressions are also not suitable for installation, because of them there is a high probability of equipment failure ahead of time.

  The smaller the territory of the site, the more difficult it is to comply with the requirements and conditions established by the regulatory authorities. High-quality factory systems themselves take up a lot of space, this must also be remembered.

Even more severe restrictions are imposed on those who have water bodies on their territory. It is recommended to keep the maximum distance possible. Even if all devices are placed correctly and there are no additional questions. A shower room with a bath can be located at a distance of up to 8 meters.

Manufacturers try every year to improve systems and produce new varieties of equipment that meet the requirements.

Conclusion

If the site is remote from the central water supply systems, the arrangement of septic tanks becomes necessary. It is best to choose stand-alone stations that do not require ongoing maintenance. They have been in use for a long time. Violation of existing norms and rules will only lead to conflict situations, as a result of which fines and other types of economic sanctions are imposed on the owner.