Septic shock is a serious, life-threatening condition that usually has another underlying cause. Bacterial infections, low immune system, artificial limbs or transplant, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, injury or previous medical conditions can all lead to septic shock. With septic shock, the body gives off a symptomatic response---causing an infection throughout the whole body which eventually gets into the blood stream. If septic shock is not treated immediately it can cause death---especially among infants and older adults.
Very High or Low Body Temperature
One sign of impending septic shock could be having a very high or very low body temperature. Some people start off with a low body temperature, especially if they were initially had hypothermia or were in an accident. During a temperature change, the sepsis condition begins to release toxins that trigger inflammation---these are called cytokines. The cytokines are designed to aid the immune system, but in septic shock they cause damaging effects, such as dilation of blood vessels to decrease blood flow and form blood clots---leading to low blood pressure. Once the cytokines begin to attack the body, the temperature can quickly rise. Temperatures of over 101 degrees F are not uncommon.
Shaking
Another sign that septic shock is beginning to set in are chills and shivers, much like when someone has a flu or severe cold. The shaking is likely caused from a drop in blood pressure and a change in body temperature. These chills can lead to all over body shaking and teeth chattering. The shaking can lead to immobility and eventually weakness in which the patient may only want to sleep or rest.
Weakness
Weakness is common in most cases of septic shock. This could be for several reasons. The most important being the body reacting to the infection and the shock that is being placed on the major organs---forcing them to work harder and forcing the body to rest. Increased acid in the blood, loss of fluids leading to dehydration and breathing difficulties may also lead to weakness.
Low Blood Pressure
Another sign of septic shock may be a decrease in normal blood pressure in the body. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, gives off its own signs and symptoms, such as dizziness, lack of concentration, blurry or double vision, shallow breathing, nausea, clammy skin and extreme thirst. Low blood pressure is generally considered anything under 100/60. The systolic (top number) and diastolic (lower number) can fluctuate and drop rapidly in a person experiencing septic shock.
Rapid Pulse and Breathing
Another sign of septic shock is a rapid pulse and fast, sporadic breathing. Both are the body's natural reaction to widespread infection and bacteria being spread into the bloodstream called bacteremia. Antibiotics, a mechanical ventilator, oxygen and a breathing tube will all assist with helping to return the body back to its normal state and alleviate and eliminate symptoms.
