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45 votes
How do you know if someone is going into septic shock? How does this happen? What

can potentially happen is septic shock is not treated?

User Wikp
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2 Answers

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30 votes

Final answer:

Septic shock is recognized by low blood pressure, organ failure, and confusion or unconsciousness, triggered by excessive inflammatory response to infection. Treatment includes IV fluids, antibiotics, and vasopressors, with the risk of death being high without prompt intervention.

Step-by-step explanation:

To recognize if someone is going into septic shock, look for symptoms including a dangerous drop in blood pressure, signs of organ failure, and a state of confusion or unconsciousness. Septic shock is often precipitated by an overwhelming infection, typically from bacteria, that leads to an excessive immune response, causing widespread inflammation and damage to tissue. The pathological process involves large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which increase vascular permeability and cause intravascular clotting, leading to multi-organ failure and potential death if untreated.

Therapies for Septic Shock

Treatments for septic shock include the rapid administration of intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and vasopressor medications to stabilize blood pressure and combat infection. Critical care often involves intensive monitoring and support for affected organ systems, possibly including mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure and dialysis for kidney failure.

Without timely treatment, septic shock can lead to a cascade of complications including irreversible tissue damage, shock, multi-organ failure, and death. Hence, recognition and prompt initiation of therapy are crucial.

User Kevin Hussey
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24 votes
24 votes

Step-by-step explanation:

Severe sepsis is when the infection is severe enough to affect the function of your organs, such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. Septic shock is when you experience a significant drop in blood pressure that can lead to respiratory or heart failure, stroke, failure of other organs, and death.

User Justin Michael
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