Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Sepsis can be a complex and overwhelming condition to understand. To help, we have compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about sepsis, including its causes, symptoms, treatment and recovery process. If you don’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

1. What is Sepsis?
Sepsis is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body’s response to an infection causes damage to its own tissues and vital organs. This overwhelming reaction can quickly lead to organ failure and, if untreated, death. Similar to a stroke or heart attack, sepsis demands immediate diagnosis and treatment. Without rapid intervention, it can progress to severe sepsis or septic shock, significantly increasing the risk of death.
2. Is Sepsis the same as blood poisoning?
Sepsis is often referred to as “blood poisoning,” but they are not exactly the same. “Blood poisoning” is a non-medical term that typically describes the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, known as bacteraemia. Sepsis, on the other hand, is the body’s extreme and harmful response to any infection, not just bacteria in the blood.
3. How do I recognise Sepsis?
4. Who is at risk of sepsis?
While sepsis can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk. These include:
- Older adults (age 65 and over)
- Infants and young children
- People with weakened immune systems (such as those undergoing chemotherapy, or living with conditions like HIV/AIDS or autoimmune diseases)
- Patients with chronic illnesses (like diabetes, kidney disease, or heart failure)
- Hospitalised individuals (especially those with invasive devices like catheters or mechanical ventilators)
- People with burns, trauma or wounds
5. How is sepsis diagnosed?
Sepsis is diagnosed by a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests, as there is no single test to confirm its presence. If sepsis is suspected, it is important to start antibiotic treatment immediately. Healthcare personnel will look for key signs such as fever, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, confusion or lethargy. They will also take blood, urine or other samples for laboratory analysis to help identify the infection – imaging tests, such as X-rays or scans, may also be used to find or confirm the source of the infection.
6. What is the treatment of Sepsis?
Sepsis is a medical emergency and treatment should be started as early as possible. Key treatments include:
- Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are usually given as soon as possible to fight the infection, often before laboratory results are available. These may be adjusted once the source of infection is identified.
- Fluids: Intravenous (IV) fluids are administered to help maintain blood pressure and ensure adequate blood flow to vital organs.
- Vasopressors: If fluids alone are not enough to stabilise blood pressure, medications called vasopressors may be used to constrict blood vessels and improve blood flow.
- Oxygen therapy: Supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation may be needed if breathing is impaired.
- Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the source of infection, such as draining an abscess or removing infected tissue.
- Supportive care: This can include dialysis for kidney failure, or medications to support heart function or other organs that may be affected.
7. What are the long-term effects of sepsis?
Surviving sepsis can lead to a range of long-term physical and psychological effects, often referred to as post-sepsis syndrome (PSS). These effects may include:
- Chronic fatigue and muscle weakness
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems (often called “brain fog”)
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Sleep disturbances
- Recurrent infections due to a weakened immune system
- Organ dysfunction, such as kidney or lung damage
- Chronic pain or joint stiffness
Recovery can vary from person to person, and some may experience lasting complications that require ongoing medical care or rehabilitation. Early rehabilitation and follow-up care can help improve long-term outcomes.