Septic shock is a medical condition that occurs when a person's body is riddled with infection. Most infections throughout the body are localized and are fought off without the systemic response that is called sepsis. During sepsis, the person cannot fight off the infection easily, and the entire body reacts to the bacteria that is causing the infection. Septic shock occurs when the body tries to battle the sepsis, and in the process, the blood pressure drops to low levels. Septic shock is most common in the elderly, very young children and women who are pregnant, but can happen to anyone.
Causes
Septic shock is caused by an underlying bacterial infection in the body, which leads to potentially fatally low blood pressure readings when the body reacts to the severe inflammation. On rare occasions, viral infections can cause sepsis, and a person can go into shock, but this scenario does not play out often. People who have medical conditions such as diabetes, a weakened immune system and certain types of cancer including leukemia and lymphoma have a higher risk for developing sepsis and going into septic shock. Septic shock can be caused by prolonged use of antibiotic medications. Using catheters for an extended period of time can lead to septic shock, because of the heightened risk of introducing bacteria into the body.
Symptoms
Sepsis can develop in any organ or area of the body, so symptoms may sometimes vary, according to the location of the infection. Symptoms of septic shock first and foremost include dangerously low blood pressure levels, especially when you are standing up. Lightheadedness, a racing heartbeat that may include palpitations, and difficulties catching your breath can be signs of septic shock. You may have chills and either develop a high fever or exhibit an abnormally low body temperature. Restless and agitation may be experienced by people who are going into septic shock.
Diagnosis
Immediate medical attention is needed to confirm a diagnosis of septic shock and to contain the damage that is done to the body's organs and tissues. Blood tests will check for infection throughout the body, as well as check the function of the liver, kidneys, heart and other vital organs. Readings that show the levels of oxygen in the blood may be used to diagnose septic shock. X-rays may be taken to rule out pneumonia or other lung infections. Urine samples and samples of spinal fluid may be collected and examined for evidence of the infection that is causing septic shock.
Treatment
Treatment for septic shock includes hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. Treatment usually begins before a firm diagnosis has been established to save the patient's tissues from further damage. The specific drugs used to clear up the infection will vary, depending on the type of bacteria that has caused the sepsis. Cases of septic shock may sometimes be treated with drotrecogin alfa, also known as activated protein c. This medication stops the body from reacting to infection by preventing inflammation, and inhibits blood clotting. Treatment for septic shock may also extend to surgery, if considerable amounts of tissue loss are indicated, in which case the dead tissue is removed from the body. Copious amounts of fluids are given intravenously to help the patient's blood pressure come back up to safe levels.
Complications
The most dire complication associated with septic shock is death, and unfortunately, the death rate caused by this type of shock is high, according to the National Library of Medicine's Medline service. Even patients who have successfully been treated for the underlying infection may face permanent damage to their organs, which may mean a lifetime of health problems ahead. Cardiac arrest is a complication associated with septic shock, as is respiratory distress.
