Blood poisoning is the lay term for septicemia, which is the presence of bacteria and/or toxic products of bacteria in the blood. The infection nearly always begins elsewhere and gets into the bloodstream as a secondary complication. Septicemia is a serious problem that can lead to multiple organ failure and death. It should be treated with control of the source, intravenous antibiotics and support of the circulation with Intravenous fluids. The signs of septicemia must be taken in the context of the overall situation. For example, fever is a common sign of many types of infection but is not always a sign of blood poisoning.
Fever
The temperature at which most physicians define fever is 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C). Patients with blood poisoning usually have fevers higher than 102 degrees F, or 38.9 degrees C.
Chills
Patients may feel cold and might be seen shivering.
Perspiration
The skin might feel cold and moist. Physicians use the term "clammy" to describe this.
Low Blood Pressure
Normal blood pressure is in the range of 120/80. Patients with blood poisoning may have blood pressures below 90/60. Another term for low blood pressure is "shock."
Rapid Heart Rate
The body's response to low blood pressure is to increase the heart rate to try to maintain circulation to vital organs.
Mental Status Changes
Patients may be confused and disoriented because of decreased circulation to the brain. If blood poisoning is untreated, this may progress to lethargy and coma.
Rapid Breathing
The respiratory rate may increase because of the body's need to maintain an adequate level of oxygen and a normal pH in the blood.
Vomiting
Decreased circulation to the stomach and intestines causes inability to digest food, and vomiting may occur.
Hemorrhages into the Skin
If blood poisoning has been present for a while, small red spots, called petechiae, may appear. They do not blanch with pressure and are caused by a drop in the platelet count that is found in severe blood poisoning.
