In a normal situation, the body would fight off infection by releasing chemicals into the bloodstream. However, when these chemicals trigger inflammation, the result can be catastrophic or even fatal. This is called sepsis, and even a minor infection can trigger it.
Sepsis is caused by a bacterial infection in the bloodstream. More than 1 million people contract sepsis every year. The elderly and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to get it.
Sepsis affects blood flow through blood clots. These blood clots can form in the arms, legs, and digits such as fingers and toes. This can lead to gangrene and amputation. Sepsis can also cause organ failure and death.
Sepsis requires a quick reaction time. If your doctor was negligent, contact a Baltimore sepsis & septic shock lawyer from Furman | Honick Law today. We’ll help you get the compensation you deserve.
Symptoms of Sepsis
The signs of sepsis are a diagnosed infection as well as the following:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Sore throat
- Extreme body temperatures (above 101 degrees or 96.8 degrees)
- Heart rate higher than 90 beats a minute;
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme pain
- Fatigue
- Extreme mental confusion
When a person goes into septic shock, it can cause complications such as:
- Low blood pressure
- High fever
- Chills
- Rapid breathing
- Memory problems
- Amputation
- Gangrene
- Kidney failure
- Death
Causes of Sepsis
Sepsis can be caused by the following:
- Contaminated food. If a person eats food contaminated with bacteria, they can suffer food poisoning. Common bacteria include E. coli, listeria, salmonella, shigella, and campylobacter.
- Contaminated medical devices. Endoscopes and dialysis equipment are exposed to pathogens that can be transmitted to a patient. Medication in an IV bag or syringe can also be contaminated. The pathogens can cause infections such as staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), candida albicans, clostridium difficile, and escherichia coli (E. coli).
- Legionnaires’ disease. Legionnaires’ disease is caused by breathing in water mist contaminated with Legionella bacteria. This can cause pneumonia, which can lead to sepsis.
- Dog bites. A penetrating dog bite can cause an infection from the bacteria Capnocytophaga canimorsus. If not treated promptly, the infection can lead to sepsis. In these cases, the owner of the dog can be sued for damages. The landlord could also be held liable if they had knowledge of the dog.
- Car accident. While rare, an injury from a car accident can cause sepsis. In this case, the at-fault driver can be held liable for sepsis and any other damages.
Contact Furman | Honick Law Today
Sepsis is a serious response to an infection that can lead to septic shock. Without proper treatment, a patient can suffer blood clots, gangrene, organ failure, and even death.
If your doctor did not catch sepsis in time, they could be sued for medical malpractice. The experienced team at Furman | Honick Law can help you seek financial recovery and justice. Call (410) 844-6000 or fill out the online form to schedule a free consultation with a Baltimore sepsis & septic shock lawyer.