Sepsis: the warning signs in adults and children and when to call 999

What is sepsis?

Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. The NHS says it can develop very quickly and needs urgent treatment in hospital.

It can follow an infection such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection or cellulitis. The exact cause is not always clear.

What are the signs in adults?

The NHS lists confusion or slurred speech, uncontrollable shivering, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and blue, pale or blotchy skin. Passing no urine all day, or very little, is another sign.

Not everyone with sepsis has every sign.

A rash that does not fade under a glass is rare in sepsis, but it can be a sign of meningitis, so call 999 or go to A&E.

In adults, a very high or very low temperature can also be a sign.

What are the signs in babies and children?

For babies and young children, the NHS lists fast or difficult breathing, blue, pale or blotchy skin, being unusually sleepy, and a rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it.

In babies and young children, poor feeding can also be a sign.

Who is at higher risk?

Anyone can get sepsis, but the chance is higher in babies under 12 months and people over 75. It can sometimes occur in people who are otherwise fit and healthy.

People with a weakened immune system, for example from chemotherapy or from taking corticosteroids or other medicines that suppress the immune system, are also at higher risk.

People with diabetes and people who have recently had surgery are also more likely to develop sepsis.

When should someone call 999?

The NHS says to call 999 or go to A&E if an adult or child shows signs of sepsis, or if there is a worry that it could be sepsis. It advises asking someone to drive, or calling for an ambulance, rather than driving oneself.

For a worry about an infection when sepsis is not suspected, the NHS says to call NHS 111 or contact the GP. When it is unclear whether it could be sepsis, the NHS says it is still better to call 999.

How is sepsis treated, and what happens afterwards?

Sepsis is treated in hospital. Treatment usually includes antibiotics, oxygen if needed, and fluids given into a vein. Some people need intensive care.

Recovery can take a long time, and some people take months or longer to feel back to normal. Some people have longer-lasting problems after sepsis, such as tiredness and changes in mood, which is sometimes called post-sepsis syndrome.

What else do the sources say?

Sometimes surgery is needed to remove the source of infection. Post-sepsis syndrome can also cause problems with memory or concentration, and support such as physiotherapy or counselling may help.