What is Sepsis?
Many people have heard of ‘septicaemia’ but sepsis is now the accepted term for this illness. It happens when an infection you already have, in your skin, lungs, urinary tract (pee/mimi), or somewhere else, triggers a chain reaction throughout your body.
What causes Sepsis?
When microorganisms (germs), such as bacteria, fungal or viral infection get into your body, they can cause an infection. If that infection isn’t stopped, it can cause sepsis. Sepsis is not an infection, but an inappropriate response to an underlying infection.
The most common infections that cause sepsis are:
An infection of the lungs
An infection of the kidneys and bladder
Infection of skin, joints and/or bone
A problem in your abdomen (puku) like a hole in the bowel
An infection that starts in the bloodstream and heart
Have an infection?
Just ask “could it be sepsis?”
Seek medical help urgently if you or your loved one develops any or one of the following:
Slurred speech or confusion, or difficult to wake
Extreme shivering or muscle pain
Passing no urine (pee/mimi) for a day
Severe breathlessness or breathing very fast
It feels like you are going to die
Skin mottled, bluish, or pale or feels abnormally cold to touch (especially in children)
Our Details
Sepsis Trust NZ
PO Box No 565
Waikato Mail Centre
Hamilton 3240
Charity No. CC56078
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