Sepsis Warning Signs – What You Need to Know

Sepsis is a body’s extreme reaction to an infection. It can turn a mild illness into a life‑threatening emergency in just hours. Knowing the warning signs lets you act before things get out of hand.

Common Early Symptoms

The first clues are often vague, but they show up quickly after an infection starts. Look for:

• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C) or a sudden drop in temperature below 96°F (35.5°C).
• Rapid heartbeat – more than 90 beats per minute.
• Fast breathing, feeling short of breath even at rest.
• Shivering, feeling cold and sweaty at the same time.
• Confusion, disorientation or trouble staying awake.

If you notice any of these together, especially after a cut, flu‑like illness, or urinary infection, treat it as a red flag. The body is trying to tell you something serious is happening.

When Things Get Serious

Sepsis can move from early warning signs to severe danger in minutes. Watch for these worsening signals:

• Skin turning pale, mottled or bluish, especially on the lips and fingertips.
• Severe pain that feels out of proportion to the original injury.
• Sudden drop in urine output – you might notice fewer trips to the bathroom.
• Extreme fatigue or a feeling that you can’t stay awake.
• Rapid mental changes, like agitation or severe confusion.

If any of these appear, call emergency services right away. Time is the most important factor – each hour of delay raises the risk of organ damage.

While waiting for help, keep the person lying flat with feet slightly raised if they feel dizzy, but don’t give food or drink unless a doctor says it’s safe. If you have a thermometer, note the temperature and share it with responders.

Preventing sepsis starts with treating infections early. Finish prescribed antibiotics, clean wounds promptly, and keep an eye on chronic conditions like diabetes that can make infections worse.

Remember, sepsis doesn’t ask for permission – it shows up fast and can be fatal if ignored. Knowing the warning signs gives you a chance to act, get treatment, and protect yourself or a loved one from serious harm.