1. Look for a Change in Your Mental State
Sepsis is an extremely dangerous bacterial infection that can originate anywhere in your body. One of the primary symptoms of sepsis is a confused or altered state of mind, which can be a direct result of a high fever. If you develop sepsis, you may start to feel confused and agitated and unaware of your surroundings. These symptoms are so pronounced that doctors look for signs of confusion and delirium, along with hyperventilation, as a primary indicator of sepsis.
2. Detect any Changes in Urination
Sepsis can affect your kidney function in profound ways. One sure way to spot symptoms of sepsis is to notice a marked decrease in your urine output. If you are suffering from an infection and a fever is already present, you should write down the frequency and the amount of urination relative to your fluid intake.
3. Spot Other Symptoms of Sepsis
A variety of other symptoms accompany a septic infection. These symptoms include skin rash, hyperventilation, chills, shaking, rapid heart beat and a warm, flushed feel to the skin. Sepsis can also produce hypothermia, or a loss of body heat, which may seem contradictory to the extreme fever that usually occurs.
4. Look for Signs of Infection or Abscesses
The most common cause of sepsis is an infection as a result of a recent surgery or other medical technique. Infections or abscesses commonly occur around surgical incisions and where intravenous lines have been inserted into your arm. Surgical drains are also a primary cause of sepsis. A septic infection can even result from bedsores over long periods of immobility.
If you have recently had a surgical procedure, check any incisions, punctures, abrasions or sores for signs of infection such as red, irritated skin and pus or abscesses. By keeping these areas clean, dry and medicated, you can avoid sepsis.
