Blood infections are commonly associated with the presence of large levels of bacteria in the blood as well as other microbes such as fungi and viruses. Bacterial or microbial infection of the blood is usually due unsanitary practices, or caused by virus and fungi spreading from the initial infected organ into the blood stream. Immunocompromised individuals such as AIDS or cancer patients are more likely to suffer from blood infections. While the signs and symptoms of blood infections vary depending on the nature and course of the pathogenic organism, commonly observed symptoms include a high fever, low blood pressure, pain and swelling of the joints.
Sepsis
The release of microbial agents such as bacteria, virus or fungus into the blood stream results in the release of excess toxins resulting in sepsis, low blood pressure and tissue damage. According to Medline Plus, infections in the lungs, bladder or kidneys, abdomen or other organs can spread into the blood stream and lead to sepsis. In addition to damaging the body's tissues, sepsis can cause an obstruction of the small blood veins, interrupting normal circulation of the blood thereby affecting the function of the kidney, heart and lungs.
Symptoms of sepsis include hyperventilation, changes in the patient's mental state, rapid heartbeat and most severe of all, a sharp drop in blood pressure leading to septic shock.
Bacterial Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is a medical condition characterized by the rapid inflammation of the meninges, the membrane surrounding the brain as well as the cerebospinal fluid. According to MayoClinic.com, bacterial meningitis is caused bacterial invasion of the bloodstream which is followed by migration to the brain and spinal cord. The primary bacterial agents responsible for bacterial meningitis are pneumococcus, meningococcus and listeria.
Symptoms commonly associated with bacterial meningitis include a stiff neck, vomiting, confusion, severe headache and sensitivity to light. Bacterial meningitis can be fatal if not properly diagnosed and treated immediately.
Staphylococcus
Staphylococcus are gram positive, aerobic bacteria that are normally localized on the skin and nasal passages of about 20 to 30 percent of healthy adults. Staphylococcus becomes pathogenic when the bacteria has systemic access via burns or cuts in the skin. When staphylococcus bacteria enter the bloodstream, sepsis and tissue damage can occur. Staphylococcal sepsis refers to a widespread bacterial infection and the release of toxins in the blood stream. Staphylococcal sepsis can lead to septic shock, circulatory collapse and death.
