Sepsis - Nature Cures®

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The name sepsis comes from the ancient Greek word “sêpsis” (σήψις). Sepsis was first documented in Homer’s poems and later in the writings of Hippocrates and referred to the decomposition of organic matter and a life-threatening condition that ancient physicians recognised as a form of biological decay.

Sepsis is sometimes called septicaemia or blood poisoning. Septic shock is the final and most dangerous form of sepsis characterised by a severe drop in blood pressure.

Which bacteria can cause sepsis?

Sepsis can be caused by any infection, but most often bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Streptococcus and Klebsiella are responsible. Other bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa can also cause sepsis, particularly in hospital-acquired infections.

How does sepsis develop?

Sepsis begins with an infection that can be caused by bacteria, fungi, yeasts, parasites or viruses. The immune system is then triggered to fight off the infection but, for reasons as yet unknown, it goes into overdrive and begins to attack the body’s own tissues causing massive systemic inflammation and lack of oxygen supply leading to damage of the organs. Left untreated various organs begin to fail, and this leads to septic shock and is fatal.

Although any infection anywhere in the body can lead to sepsis, the most common sites are the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, pelvis, skin and soft tissues and the urinary tract. It can also be caused by pneumonia, skin infections, or wounds.

NOTE: Over consumption of alcohol is known to cause a higher risk of developing sepsis due to impairment of the immune system against infection and it can also worsen the outcome of sepsis as can smoking tobacco.

Sepsis symptoms

A sudden drop in blood pressure
Confusion or disorientation
Extreme pain or discomfort
Fast heartbeat
Fever or hypothermia (both very high and very low temperatures can be signs of sepsis)
Nausea and vomiting
Pale and blotchy skin
Shivering
Skin becomes clammy or sweaty
Unusual and difficult breathing

NOTE: Sepsis is often difficult to diagnose as the symptoms can, at first, be similar to flu, a chest infection or gastroenteritis. If some of these symptoms are present urgent medical care at a hospital is required.

How is sepsis diagnosed?

Sepsis is diagnosed using basic measurements such as breathing rate, heart rate and temperature plus blood and blood pressure tests.

In February 2019, a new test for quicker diagnosis of sepsis was developed by researchers at the University of Strathclyde. This device tests the blood to see if a protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6) is present and is able to give a result in 2.5 minutes. Timing is vital as treatment needs to be given within an hour of the first symptoms appearing. This is known as the ‘sepsis golden hour’.

How to avoid sepsis

Keeping infections at bay by regular handwashing and cleanliness is one way to avoid sepsis. Cleaning cuts and other skin abrasions with soap and water is especially important. A healthy varied diet of organic whole foods including lean protein, seeds, nuts, legumes and grains and especially a wide range of colours of vegetables and fruit can all help to regulate the immune system.

Looking after the intestinal flora is also very important. See>> Feed your friendly bacteria

For a good diet to help recover from sepsis is vital see>> Healthy diet to aid recovery

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