Septic shock is the state of having a dangerously low blood pressure in response to infection. When an infection spreads throughout the body, it is called sepsis. Sometimes the body's way of reacting to sepsis, especially when the immune system is compromised from disease, is to go into shock. People over 35 are more at risk for septic shock, according to the Merck Manual. Other risk factors involve a person's overall health and lifestyle.
Recent Surgery
People who have recently had surgery and are in a hospital setting are more at risk for septic shock because of the increased likelihood of bacteria entering the body both during surgery and recovery. People who are on antibiotics to prevent post-surgical infection might also be at risk if the infection is antibiotic-resistant.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women can have an increased risk of going into septic shock. Newborns, most likely because of their still-developing immune systems, are also among the people who are more likely to develop sepsis and septic shock. Both pregnant women and newborns might be more likely to have bacteria introduced into their bodies during routine examinations and from being in a large hospital setting.
Drug Users
People who inject street drugs are at risk for septic shock because of the lack of cleanliness of their drug paraphernalia. Needles that are not sterile pose the risk of infection because bacteria can enter the bloodstream as the drugs are injected.
Prosthetics
Patients who have artificial heart valves or prosthetic limbs can have a higher-than-normal risk of going into septic shock. Bacteria can collect around the prosthetic and lead to infection in some people. People who have heart valve disease may also be more at risk.
Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases, including AIDS, cancer, diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver or lupus, can all present a risk for septic shock. The immune system is often weaker when suffering from a chronic illness, making a person more susceptible to an infection that can lead to shock.
