Sepsis is a life-threatening complication caused by any kind of infection. Formerly referred to as blood infection, it became known in 2005 as the cause of death of Pope John Paul II.
In an interview on "Magandang Gabi Dok" on Thursday, Dr. Jose Emmanuel Palo of The Medical City explained how common infections can lead to sepsis.
"Ang sepsis ay reaction ng katawan sa isang infection," Palo said. "Hindi siya 'yung infection, separate po siya doon sa infection mismo. Kaya lang, 'yung reaction po na iyon, inherent po, nasa loob ng katawan natin. Minsan nakaka-damage po or nakakasama sa sariling mga organs or tissues po ng katawan natin."
Any kind of infection, whether caused by a virus, bacteria or fungus, may cause sepsis, Palo added.
Sepsis can also lead to death, especially in severe cases.
According to Palo, common symptoms of sepsis include fever, increase in pulse and heart rate, rapid breathing and a feeling of weakness.
Once it becomes severe, sepsis can also cause a person's blood pressure to drop.
"Kapag bumagsak na ang blood pressure ng isang taong may sepsis, tapos hindi na po mahabol using swero o fluids, nangangailangan na po ng special na medicines para mapaakyat ang blood pressure," Palo added.
Palo said it is important for people to immediately consult a doctor once they notice these symptoms.
"Ang importante siguro is kapag nandoon na ang mga symptoms or signs na 'yun at nararamdaman natin, the moment po na feeling natin kakaiba na po ang pakiramdam, nanghihina po, mas importante po siguro na i-check po kung nangyayari na ang sepsis."
Doctors can then check whether a person is suffering from sepsis through blood tests.
Palo also said people with prevailing illnesses like cancer, or those undergoing treatments like dialysis, are at high risk of sepsis.
This is also the reason why doctors and other hospital personnel should practice proper hygiene.
"Halimbawa may cancer. Habang nag-chemotherapy, habang ginagamot, bumabagsak ang immune system. Mas mataas ang chance na magkaroon ng sepsis," he added.
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
